National Assembly Paid Tribute To Raila

By PSCU

Members of the National Assembly paid tribute to Raila Amollo Odinga yesterday.

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula led Members in paying tribute to the departed statesman, describing him as “one of Kenya’s greatest sons whose life and legacy are woven into the fabric of our nation’s democratic journey.”

Wetang’ula hailed the late Odinga as a reformer, freedom fighter, and patriot whose imprint could be found in every phase of Kenya’s political evolution, from the fight for multiparty democracy to the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

“The Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga was a reformer whose fingerprints are on every chapter of Kenya’s democratic evolution. He stood at the forefront of the conversations that birthed our Constitution, a living testament to shared governance, freedom, and devolution,” he said.

The Speaker reflected on Odinga’s journey, from his early life in Maseno, Kisumu County, to his education in Germany and his return home to teach at the University of Nairobi and establishing East African Spectre Limited. He said these experiences reflected “his belief that Africans could build and own their future.”

Wetang’ula also recounted the former Prime Minister’s role in leading national reconciliation after the 2007–2008 post-election crisis.

“As Prime Minister in the Grand Coalition Government, Raila Odinga worked alongside the late President Mwai Kibaki to rebuild a nation torn by grief,” he noted, adding that Odinga’s leadership during that period embodied “a commitment to peace over power and unity over division.”

The Speaker went on to praise Odinga’s service beyond Kenya’s borders as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, saying he carried Kenya’s vision of unity and progress to the continental stage.

“Even in moments of political contest, he often chose peace over power,” he said adding, “He demonstrated, time and again, that leadership is not only about winning but about holding a nation together.”

Wetang’ula concluded his remarks by extending condolences on behalf of the National Assembly and the Parliamentary Service Commission to Mama Ida Odinga, their children Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie, and to the extended Odinga family.

“We remember this towering freedom fighter, patriot, and statesman,” he said. “His was a life that reminded us that conviction and compassion can walk hand in hand. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Sentiments that were echoed by Members of Parliament from both divides of the House who equally paid glowing tributes to the late leader, recalling his courage, humility, and enduring belief in the power of democracy.

Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah stated, “The Rt. Hon Raila Odinga taught us that patriotism means speaking truth to power, even when it costs you everything. He believed deeply in dialogue and reconciliation.”

“The best gift we can give this great man is to keep that spirit alive, to continue engaging in dialogue, even when we disagree. Raila Odinga has left us, but long live Baba. May your spirit and legacy live on in this country, and we will honour you by staying true to the ideals you stood for,” he added.

Seme MP, James Nyikal described the Late Raila as, “not just a politician, but as a teacher of courage, conviction, and compassion.”

“I wish to pass my condolences to the people of Kenya for the loss of the best President we never had, a leader who truly stood for democracy, who wholeheartedly loved the people of Kenya, and who firmly believed that the sole purpose of acquiring power is to improve the lives of the people,” pronounced Dr. Nyikal in his tribute.

Migori County MP, Fatuma Mohammed on her part praised the late Raila Odinga for his unwavering support for women in leadership, saying he consistently opened doors for their participation in politics.

“It was under Baba’s leadership that many women in power today received direct nominations, because he genuinely believed in women’s ability to lead,” she said.

Nithi MP, Kareke Mbiuki called on leaders to emulate the late Prime Minister stating, “Hon. Raila was a pillar of stability in this country, and I would really like us, as political leaders, to emulate him, to continue preaching peace even in times of difficulty. His ability to build bridges across political divides is what should guide us.”

Kitutu Masaba MP, Clive Gesairo added, “As Baba rests, those of us who remain should carry forth his spirit, the fight for equality, transparency, and the dream of a better Kenya for us and the generations to come.”

He went on to add that, “Baba’s dream was of a Kenya that works for every child, no matter where they were born.”

The late Raila will be accorded a State Funeral and will be interred at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo on Sunday, the 19th of October, 2025.