A Journey of Grief and Unity
Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka recently addressed the media in Kisumu before heading to Opoda farm in Bondo to pay their final respects to the late Raila Amolo Odinga. The delegation, which left Kisumu early on Thursday morning, was on a mission to visit Opoda Farm before proceeding to Kango Kajaramogi, where the late opposition leader was laid to rest.
During his address in Kisumu, Kalonzo described the late Raila Odinga as a true patriot who dedicated his life to shaping Kenya into a “good, reputable, and democratically oriented nation.” He emphasized the deep connection between himself and Raila, highlighting their shared journey in fighting for a democratic Kenya.
“Today, I have come to mourn my late brother, Raila Amollo Odinga, with whom we went to the trenches to give this country a respectable, democratic nation, the type of nation that young Kenyans have been looking forward to,” Kalonzo said. His words reflected the deep respect and admiration he had for Raila.
Dressed in jungle green, Kalonzo referred to Raila as “the father of maandamano,” acknowledging their joint resistance against bad governance that paved the way for Kenya’s democratic freedoms. He explained that his choice of attire was a tribute to Raila, stating, “We resisted, and Kenyans are still resisting bad governance.”
Kalonzo, accompanied by several leaders and professionals from the Ukambani region, announced plans to make a short stop to pay courtesy to Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o before traveling to Bondo. He urged everyone to drive peacefully and asked a bishop to pray for the delegation’s safe journey. Among those in his entourage were clan elders, professionals, and bishops, as well as former and current Members of Parliament.
The Wiper leader praised the residents of Kisumu and Siaya for their warm reception and solidarity with Mama Ida Odinga and the Odinga family. “We are united in mourning our brother. I spoke to Governor James Orengo, and I can see the people of Kisumu and Siaya have truly welcomed us. Everyone is here to support Mama Ida and the family,” he said.
He further noted that members of the Opposition were standing together in grief, adding that Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and George Natembeya had also expressed their condolences. “Even our brothers like Rigathi Gachagua and others will find time to mourn our late brother. We are all united in this moment of loss,” Kalonzo added.
A Symbolic Act of Respect
Upon reaching Bondo, the team will have a brief stopover at Opoda Farm before proceeding to the gravesites at Kango Kajaramogi. There, they will lay wreaths at the graves of Raila Odinga, his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son Fidel Odinga. This gesture represents three generations of leadership and sacrifice for Kenya’s democracy.
After the wreath-laying ceremony, the delegation will return to Opoda Farm, where speeches in honor of Raila’s legacy will be delivered. In a show of solidarity and cultural respect, the delegation will also present a gift of 150 head of cattle to the Odinga family. This traditional gesture symbolizes unity, respect, and shared mourning.
A Cultural Celebration of Life
The Wiper leader last week called on Kenyans to join him in his trip to Bondo, describing the planned event as a cultural celebration of Raila’s life. The opposition’s visit to Raila’s home in Bondo will be the first major gathering by leaders opposed to President William Ruto’s administration at Raila’s gravesite since his burial on October 19.
Leaders from across the country and the continent have been visiting Raila’s Opoda farm in Bondo to mourn with the family and pay their last respects at Raila’s grave at Kang’o ka Jaramogi. This ongoing tribute reflects the deep impact Raila had on Kenyan politics and society.