Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka yesterday led a high-profile delegation from Eastern Kenya to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, the ancestral home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, to pay tribute to the fallen opposition leader.
Speaking during the emotional memorial gathering, Kalonzo delivered a heartfelt eulogy, reflecting on decades of political struggle, shared sacrifice, and personal danger alongside Odinga.
“We have been in the trenches with my brother. In 2023, when Kenyans were saying the cost of living was unbearable, Raila and I nearly got killed in Embakasi South. It was like the orders were given that day — mainly targeting Raila — because we counted ten bullet attempts on him. If he didn’t have an armoured vehicle, we would have buried him in 2023,” Kalonzo recounted.
Tribute to a ‘Man of God and Patriot’
Musyoka condemned derogatory labels previously used against Odinga and his family, describing the late leader as a man of faith, courage, and sacrifice.
“We are burying a man of God who laid his life for the sake of this nation. This is not a mganga or mchawi lying here. Nobody should ever use those names again or associate the Oginga Odinga family with such things,” he said.
Kalonzo further praised Raila’s unifying spirit, noting that leaders from across Kenya’s political divide — including those who had once opposed him — would eventually gather to honour his memory.
“Don’t be surprised when the whole nation keeps coming here. I know even the Kikuyu nation, and our brother Riggy G, would want to come. Those who spoke badly spoke for themselves,” he added.
‘Raila Will Be More Powerful in Death’
The Wiper leader hailed Odinga’s lasting influence, particularly among young Kenyans, saying his ideas and vision for a just and democratic Kenya would endure beyond his passing.
“Raila will be more powerful in death than he was alive, because he inspired the young Kenyans and the Gen Zs. The history of this nation cannot be written without prominence being given to Raila,” he declared.
Kalonzo was accompanied by several religious and political leaders from the Eastern region, who joined mourners in honouring Odinga’s legacy of resilience and reform.
Orengo Praises Kalonzo for Loyalty
Siaya Governor James Orengo, who hosted the delegation, lauded Musyoka for his unwavering political partnership with Odinga across multiple election cycles.
“Kalonzo has walked this journey with Baba through thick and thin. His presence here today shows the unity and respect that Raila inspired among leaders of all backgrounds,” Orengo said.
