Leaders in Kericho County have joined the rest of the country in mourning the passing away of former Prime Minister and ODM Party leader Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a reformist, statesman, and one of the most influential figures in Kenya’s democratic history.
Speaking to the press at Moi Gardens in Kericho Town, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Kericho County Chairperson Ms Ann Chepkwony said the ODM fraternity had lost not only its leader but also its guiding light, describing the news of Odinga’s death as a profound loss that marked the end of an era in Kenya’s political history.
“As ODM fraternity, we have lost our hero and president of our party, a leader who dedicated his entire life to the service of Kenya. As a reformist and champion of democracy, his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and good governance inspired generations across Kenya and Africa,” Ms. Chepkwony said.
In her tribute, Chepkwony eulogized Odinga’s unwavering resilience and lifelong personal sacrifice, noting that he exemplified the belief that true leadership is measured not by power or privilege, but by selfless service to others and an unrelenting pursuit of a better future for all.
She extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of ODM members in Kericho County to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, assuring them of the fraternity’s continued support, prayers, and solidarity during this moment of grief.
“As we mourn this great loss, we must also rededicate ourselves to the ideals that Raila stood for; unity, democracy, peace, and social justice and let us honour his legacy by carrying forward the vision he so passionately pursued, a just, united, and prosperous Kenya for all,” she added.
Meanwhile, in statements issued by various leaders across Kericho County, led by Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, the former Prime Minister was praised and described as an enigma in Kenyan politics whose fearless statesmanship and lifelong commitment to democracy, justice, devolution, and national unity left an indelible mark on the nation’s political and social fabric, a legacy that Dr. Mutai noted would be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
“On behalf of the people of Kericho, I extend our deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, their children, and the entire Odinga family, and we also convey our sympathies to President William Ruto for losing a formidable ally in the quest for a better Kenya. May they find strength in knowing that Raila’s vision and sacrifice touched millions and shaped the destiny of our nation,” Dr. Mutai said.
In the meantime, Kericho Senator and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot described Odinga as the man in the arena whose political life was defined by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to the nation’
Cheruiyot noted that Raila was a true patriot who loved Kenya deeply, consistently placed the interests of the country above all else, and whose vision, speeches, and stories not only inspired, but also profoundly ministered to the hearts and minds of countless Kenyans.
He further noted that although the enigma may fade with time, Raila’s teachings would remain eternal; emphasizing that Odinga was not merely a politician but a guiding light whose legacy would continue to live on in every Kenyan who upholds the values of truth, freedom, equality, and justice.
Likewise, Kericho County Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei hailed the late Odinga as a symbol of courage, conviction, and selfless leadership, noting that his resilience and steadfast commitment to truth, even in the face of persecution, helped shape the nation’s conscience and inspired unity, adding that he fought tirelessly for the freedoms Kenyans enjoy today and firmly believed the country could rise above division and injustice.
Similarly, Ainamoi Member of Parliament Amb. Benjamin Langat expressed deep sorrow on the passing away of the former Prime Minister, describing him as a true hero, visionary leader, and fearless defender of democracy
He added that Odinga’s unmatched courage, steadfast principles, and lifelong dedication to building a better Kenya would continue to serve as a lasting inspiration to generations to come.
Across Kericho County, residents continued to express deep grief and admiration for the late leader, portraying him as a man who rose above political divides and embodied the spirit of unity, resilience, and hope, with many noting that Raila’s humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice left an indelible mark on their lives and that his political journey gave voice to the voiceless while restoring dignity to the ordinary Kenyan.
Following President William Ruto’s announcement of Odinga’s death on Wednesday, residents of Kericho Town poured into the streets carrying twigs and placards, chanting sorrowful songs and waving orange flags in a spontaneous outpouring of grief as they paid their last respects to the man many fondly called Baba. The sombre mood across the town reflected the deep sense of loss felt by mourners who spoke of a leader whose lifelong struggle for freedom, justice, and equality helped shape the foundations of the modern Kenyan state.
By Kibe Mburu
