Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula joined the former President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, in paying homage to the late Raila Odinga at his final resting place in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo.
A host of Kenyan leaders, including Cabinet Secretaries and international leaders, were also present.
Braving a heavy downpour, Wetang’ula joined mourners and dignitaries who converged at the Odinga homestead to honour the life and legacy of a man he described as “a true giant of Kenya’s democratic journey, whose fingerprints are deeply imprinted in the nation’s fight for justice, equality and freedom.”
“The continued flow of mourners at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, even a week after Baba’s burial, speaks volumes about the love and respect Kenyans and friends from across the world had for him. He made countless sacrifices for peace, unity, and prosperity, a level of selflessness rarely seen in politics,” said Wetang’ula.
The Speaker emphasised that Raila’s passing should serve as a rallying call for unity among leaders and citizens, urging the nation to carry forward his vision of a transformative, peaceful, and prosperous Kenya.
In a symbolic gesture, Wetang’ula presented to the Odinga family a copy of the Hansard record capturing Raila’s historic contributions as Lang’ata MP and Prime Minister during sittings of the National Assembly.
He proposed that the document be preserved at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Museum as part of Kenya’s democratic heritage.
“It is important that future generations appreciate Baba’s enormous contribution to parliamentary democracy. His debates and submissions in the House will remain a timeless resource for students of leadership and governance,” he added.
Wetang’ula also revealed that his upcoming book will feature a dedicated chapter on Raila reflecting on the political journey they shared and the transformative moments that shaped Kenya’s multiparty era.
The event drew an array of leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives) and Deborah Mulongo (Environment), Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli, Governors led by host James Orengo (Siaya), as well as MPs and MCAs.
Raila died at the Devamatha Hospital in Kerala, southern India, after collapsing during a morning walk while undergoing treatment.
Leaders from across Kenya and beyond have visited Bondo to pay their respects to Raila.
During the ceremony at the graveside, former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a stirring eulogy in which he pledged to protect and advance the legacy of Raila as a champion of justice and equality.
He referenced Raila’s lifelong struggle for inclusive
governance and called on present-day leaders to carry forward his vision in
their own service to the people
