A delegation of leaders and elders from the Kalenjin community will today visit the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to condole with his family and celebrate his legacy as a unifying national figure.
Led by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, who chairs the Kalenjin MPs caucus, the delegation will present 80 bulls to the Odinga family, a symbolic gesture representing the 80 years Raila lived and a mark of respect deeply rooted in Kalenjin tradition.
“We are going there with a lot of sadness because we have lost a great leader who helped unite the country,” said Melly.
"He worked well with Presidents Moi, Kibaki, Uhuru, and most recently with President William Ruto. His life was defined by service, resilience, and unity.”
The visit, Melly explained, also serves as a cultural ceremony intended to cement friendship and mutual respect between the Kalenjin and Luo communities.
He described the gesture as one meant to “signify brotherhood, peace, and the enduring bond” between the two groups.
“We are taking the condolences of the Kalenjin community of about six million people,” he said.
“We are taking these bulls because Raila was a real man, strong, courageous, and dedicated to the good of the nation. The bulls will serve as a timeless gesture of respect and goodwill, signifying unity between our communities.”
Raila, 80, passed away last Wednesday in India, where he had been receiving treatment.
His death has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political divide, reflecting his influence on Kenya’s political and social landscape.
President Ruto announced a seven-day mourning period in his honor.
He is set to be laid to rest on Sunday.
Melly added that the visit by Kalenjin elders was not only an act of condolence but also a reaffirmation of the friendship forged between President Ruto and the late Raila, which helped strengthen ties between the two historically rival communities.
“The unity and friendship that Raila and Ruto established between the Kalenjin and Luo communities will remain intact for years to come,” he said.
Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur, who is among those accompanying the delegation, said the visit and the gifts were an expression of gratitude and respect.
“We are extending the spirit of friendliness as a community to the family of Raila and to the Nyanza people during this difficult time,” Kitur said.
"Our visit reaffirms our shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous nation.”
