Siaya Governor James Orengo on Sunday delivered a powerful and emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, vowing to carry forward his unwavering fight for democracy, justice, and equality in Kenya.
Speaking during Raila’s state funeral at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Orengo eulogized his longtime political ally and friend as “an enigma, a freedom fighter, and the conscience of Kenya’s democracy.”
“We shall continue with the democratic ideals that Baba began,” Orengo declared, his voice heavy with emotion. “Raila stood for truth, justice, and the people. His vision for a free and fair Kenya must never die.”
The veteran lawyer and human rights crusader recounted their days in the political trenches — moments filled with arrests, protests, and sacrifice — as they fought against oppressive regimes in pursuit of multiparty democracy.
“We were in the streets together. We were jailed together. We saw the pain of repression together,” he recalled. “But Raila never wavered. He was the last man standing when many had given up.”
Orengo also took a moment to thank President William Ruto for according Raila Odinga a full State funeral, describing it as a fitting honour for a man whose life was devoted to the liberation and unity of the nation.
“I want to sincerely thank President Ruto for standing with the Odinga family and giving Baba the dignity he deserved in death,” Orengo said. “This is a gesture that shows that even in our political differences, we can still uphold respect and nationhood.”
Reflecting on the legacy of the Odinga family, Orengo noted that while the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, was not accorded due recognition during his time, the honour given to Raila signified a turning point in Kenya’s political maturity.
“History has finally smiled upon the Odinga name,” he added. “Today, we bury a hero whose footprints are carved into the heart of this nation.”
The governor concluded his tribute by promising to rally the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its supporters to stay true to Raila’s lifelong mission — to defend democracy and uplift the ordinary Kenyan.
“We will not let Baba’s dream die. We will speak out, organize, and keep the flame of democracy alive,” Orengo affirmed.
Raila Odinga’s state funeral marked the culmination of a week-long national mourning period, attended by local and international dignitaries, in honour of a man widely regarded as Kenya’s greatest opposition leader and a symbol of resilience.
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