Africa-Press – Kenya. Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi has paid glowing tribute to the late Dalmas Otieno.
Mudavadi described him as a towering statesman whose leadership left a lasting imprint on Kenya’s democracy, Parliament and government.
Speaking during the burial service in Rongo Migori County, Mudavadi represented President William Ruto at the ceremony and delivered his message of condolence to the family and people of Rongo.
He remembered Dalmas as an intelligent, articulate and dedicated leader whose contribution to the national discourse elevated both his constituency and the country.
“Dalmas was tall and solid. An intelligent individual. I got to Parliament at the age of 28 years and found Dalmas already there. His debates were top-notch. If you go to the Hansard archives, you will see his record. Dalmas was a vocal leader, unlike some who pass through Parliament without ever making a contribution,” Mudavadi said.
He noted that Dalmas’ interventions in Parliament were not only eloquent but also well-researched, giving weight to the issues he raised and leaving a lasting record in Kenya’s parliamentary history.
Mudavadi lauded the late legislator for having brought recognition to Rongo Constituency and proved himself as a leader who was both dedicated and consistent.
“Dalmas served very well in Parliament. He was dedicated and left a legacy that we should all embrace. His voice was never absent when matters of national interest were on the floor. That is the kind of leadership that builds institutions,” Mudavadi added.
Beyond Parliament, Mudavadi highlighted Dalmas’ service in Cabinet and his leadership role in chairing the Inter-Party Parliamentary Group (IPPG), which negotiated key electoral reforms during Kenya’s democratic transition in the 1990s.
He said Dalmas’ contribution in this period had left an indelible mark in the annals of Kenya’s history.
“Dalmas’ legacy reminds us that democracy is not just about competition but also about dialogue, fairness and responsibility. He was at the forefront of reforms that helped shape our democratic journey. That kind of legacy should continue to guide us today,” he remarked.
Mudavadi further spoke about the significance of the broad-based government of President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga noting that their working together was a major statement about the power of unity even after political rivalry.
“This is a major statement about bringing people together even after intense competition. We must work with them, pull together, and ensure their vision for this country is not destroyed. Their decision to stand together on such occasions must inspire us to build bridges, not walls,” Mudavadi said.
Mudavadi emphasised the need for leaders to safeguard equity and fairness in governance, especially in the allocation of resources.
He singled out Samuel Atandi, the chair of the Budget Committee, urging him to take a leading role in ensuring inclusivity in resource distribution.
“We want leaders to put their spotlight on fairness in the allocation of resources across all parts of the country. Equity should not be negotiable, because it is the foundation of national cohesion. I encourage Hon. Atandi to use his office to ensure equity and inclusivity,” he said.
Mudavadi urged both leaders and citizens to carry forward the values that Dalmas stood for, particularly dedication to public service, commitment to fairness and respect for dialogue.
He said that honoring Dalmas’ memory should not end at his burial but should inspire leaders to emulate his example in building a stronger democracy.
“Dalmas showed us that democracy requires both voice and responsibility. His dedication to fairness and national service must inspire us to safeguard and strengthen our democratic journey,” Mudavadi said.
The burial was attended by leaders from across the political divide, among them Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyongo, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Interior PS Raymond Omollo, MPs, and other local and national leaders.
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