Raila graces coronation of Luo elders' chair Ker Odungi Randa

Leaders led by Azimio leader Raila Odinga have converged in Kisumu for the coronation of the Luo Council of Elders Chairman Ker Odungi Randa.

The event is being held at the Ofafa Memorial Hall.

All the Governors from Nyanza Region led by Kisumu Governor Anyang, Homabay's Gladys Wanga, Siaya's James Orengo, and Migori's Ochillo Ayako are all in attendance with their deputies apart from Siaya.

A section of Senators, MPs among other local leaders and ODM party officials from across the region are also in attendance.

The actual coronation will be preceded by colourful cultural performances among others.

The coronation of a KER is a significant event for the Luo community.

ABOUT KER ODUNGI RANDA

Ker Randa was born on December 29, 1939, in Kakola village in Kano, Kisumu County.

He did his primary education at Bunde Orongo Primary School before proceeding to Maliera Intermediary School at Gem Kodiaga in Siaya County.

He later went to Kasubi, currently at Makerere University in Uganda, where he discontinued his education due to a lack of school fees.

He returned home to teach at his former school –Bunde Primary School where he shined as an exemplary teacher.

He first met Jaramogi Ajuma Oginga Odinga in 1958. Jaramogi was then a member of the LEGCO. He appointed the young Odungi as his Personal Assistant following recommendations from Friends.

Odungi’s star continued to shine and rose to become Kenya People’s Union Secretary in 1969.

In 1970, after Jaramogi was detained, Odungi Randa joined Eden Company in Kampala, a specialized water supply company to hospitals, he worked there traversing many African Countries and visiting many cities.

Eventually, he rejoined Jaramogi after the opposition politician was released from detention, and continued to serve him as a trusted PA.

He has remained steadfast in opposition politics and advisor to many leaders until he was elected as the 9th Luo Ker at a ceremony held in Homa Bay this year in July.

Randa took over the position following the death of Wilis Opiyo Otondi.