Anglican Bishop David Hillington Kodia spoke not just to mourners but to the soul of this nation during the funeral service for Raila Odinga.
He condemned leaders who steal public money, divide Kenyans along tribal lines and use cash to intimidate or buy supporters. He urged today’s politicians to follow Raila’s example, to lead through persuasion, ideas and service, not through greed or fear.
His message struck a chord because it reflected exactly what Raila stood for. Throughout his life, Raila fought against corruption, injustice and inequality.
He believed in fair competition, tolerance and a Kenya where leadership was about ideas and integrity, not money and power.
The bishop’s message should not end at the funeral grounds. It should challenge every Kenyan to reflect and act differently.
When leaders loot public funds, they deny citizens better hospitals, schools and roads. When they use tribe to divide people, they weaken our unity. When they treat politics as a business for profit, they destroy the hope of young people who believe in honest work.
As we mourn Raila, the best way to honour him is to live by the values he championed. Let every leader, from the highest to the local level, commit to clean politics. Let Kenyans refuse to be bought or manipulated. Let the institutions of justice act firmly against corruption, no matter who is involved.
This is the Kenya Raila dreamed of, one built on honesty, respect, and equality.
Quote of the Day: “A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.”
Colin Powell
The American General and 1st Black US Secretary of State died on October 18, 2021
