Africa-Press – Kenya. The Council of Governors has paid glowing tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a forthright leader, an astute politician, the father and defender of devolution, and a gentle giant who stood for true justice.
In an extraordinary meeting held Thursday afternoon at the CoG headquarters in Nairobi, governors signed a condolence book in honour of the fallen opposition leader and shared personal tributes reflecting on his decades of public service.
Led by CoG chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, vice chair Mutahi Kahiga, and whip Muthomi Njuki, the governors called on fellow politicians to emulate Raila’s legacy and unite the country.
“As the Council of Governors, we hold his legacy close to our hearts,” Abdullahi said, describing devolution as the brainchild of the late ODM leader.
“The fruits of devolution—stronger local economies, improved service delivery, and enhanced public participation—are rooted in his advocacy,” he added.
Njuki recalled working harmoniously with Raila despite their ideological differences.
“This is what matters, not what happens during elections,” he said.
“To His Excellency, even in death — and despite the perception that the people of Tharaka Nithi denied you victory in 2007—you still found friendship in us,” he added while conveying condolences from the county’s residents.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga described Raila as “a true icon, a man whose life’s work undeniably shaped the course of our nation’s history.”
He hailed him as a statesman par excellence, a Pan-Africanist, and a fighter for social justice.
“Raila always went beyond personal ambition,” Mutahi said. “During moments when the country needed sobriety, his voice restored peace and tranquillity. He put nation before self and remained deaf to criticism as he fought to save our motherland.”
Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka said Raila was “more than a political figure—he was a movement.”
He praised Raila’s courage, conviction, and unshakable belief that Kenya could become a better country.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr noted that the outpouring of grief across the nation was testament to Raila’s unmatched influence.
“If there was any doubt about the role Raila Odinga played in Kenya, those doubts have been erased by the tears and tributes we’ve seen in the streets,” he said.
“Raila Amollo Odinga was truly the people’s president they never had.”
The sentiments echoed the feelings of the other governors, who equally praised the fallen ODM boss as a true statesman.
Raila died on Wednesday after suffering a cardiac arrest while on a morning walk at an Ayurvedic eye hospital in India, where he was receiving treatment.
His body was flown back home on Thursday ahead of burial on Sunday at his rural home in Bondo, in line with his wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his death.
Public viewing of the body was held at Kasarani Stadium on Thursday, followed by a national funeral service on Friday at Nyayo Stadium.
The body will be flown to Kisumu on Saturday for viewing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium before a night vigil in Bondo ahead of Sunday’s burial, which is expected to draw huge crowds.
For More News And Analysis About Kenya Follow Africa-Press
