Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, presented to Dr Ida Odinga, widow of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, a bound Hansard capturing the parliamentary contributions of the opposition leader and Kenya’s second Prime Minister on Sunday, October 19, 2025./NA, X
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, on Sunday presented to Dr Ida Odinga a bound Hansard volume capturing the lifetime parliamentary record of her late husband, Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga.
The emotional handover took place during a funeral mass at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo, where thousands gathered to celebrate and bid farewell to one of Kenya’s most enduring political figures before his burial at his Opoda home.
The Hansard compilation covers Raila Odinga’s extensive parliamentary career, from his early days as a Member of Parliament to his role as Kenya’s second Prime Minister (2008–2013). It features his debates, motions, bills, petitions, and his historic “Prime Minister’s Question Time,” reflecting his decades of advocacy for democracy, justice, and equality.
Speaker Wetang’ula described the document as more than a parliamentary record, calling it a “national treasure” that immortalises Raila’s vision and voice in Kenya’s democratic journey.
“This Hansard is not just a record of speeches. It is the story of a man who gave his life to public service and democracy. It is also the story of a nation navigating its path towards justice, equity, and freedom,” Wetang’ula said.
He added that the presentation to Raila’s widow symbolised Parliament’s role as the guardian of Kenya’s democratic legacy.
“By presenting it to the family, we preserve his memory for posterity and remind Kenyans that Parliament is the custodian of our democratic journey,” the Speaker said.
A visibly moved Dr Ida Odinga received the bound Hansard as mourners applauded. Holding it close, she expressed deep gratitude to the National Assembly for preserving her husband’s contributions to the nation.
“This is a priceless gift to the family and to the country,” she said. “For generations to come, young Kenyans will be able to read his words, understand his struggles, and be inspired to continue the fight for a better Kenya.”
Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, presented to Dr Ida Odinga, widow of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, a bound Hansard capturing the parliamentary contributions of the opposition leader and Kenya’s second Prime Minister on Sunday, October 19, 2025./NA, X
In his tribute, Wetang’ula eulogised the late Raila as “one of the greatest sons of the soil,” describing him as a public guarantor and trustee in Kenya’s political story. Drawing from Tanzanian author Shaban bin Robert’s Kusadikika, he said nations reveal their heroes in times of great crisis.
“In 2007, when Kenya stood on the brink of collapse, Raila Amollo Odinga emerged as the hero who reached out to his rival, President Mwai Kibaki. Together, they forged a peace that has lasted to this day. He fought a strong fight but remained loyal to his country,” the Speaker said.
He conveyed condolences from Members of the National Assembly, noting that they had held a special sitting on Thursday in honour of the former Prime Minister.
“Extracts of his contributions, as well as tributes by fellow MPs, have been compiled and will remain in the family’s library as testimony of his service to the country,” Wetang’ula added.
Turning to current leaders, the Speaker urged President William Ruto to uphold unity and avoid divisive politics.
“Even in his lowest political moments, Raila preached peace. After the 2017 elections, he reminded us that no cause or price is worth spilling blood for. That is the mantra we must all live by,” he said.
The mass brought together President Ruto, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, opposition leaders, governors, senators, MPs, Cabinet Secretaries, and foreign dignitaries, a rare show of national solidarity in honour of a man whose political life spanned over four decades.
Clergy described Raila as a steadfast leader who, despite numerous political trials, never wavered in his pursuit of justice, democracy, and inclusivity.
The Hansard record, Wetang’ula announced, will be archived both in the National Assembly Library and the Kenya National Archives, ensuring that scholars, historians, and citizens can access and study Raila Odinga’s legislative legacy for generations to come.
