ODM Kiambu Leaders Mourn Raila, Says He Was A Statesman

By Felix Njenga

Leaders of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Kiambu County joined Kenyans and the global community in mourning the death of their party leader, Raila Odinga.

Addressing the press in Kiambu, Jimmy Komu, the ODM County Deputy Chairman, described Raila as “an astute leader who accommodated everyone and dedicated his life to the service of Kenya and Africa.”

Komu said Raila’s death had left a void that would be difficult to fill, adding that the fallen leader deserved to be accorded a state funeral in recognition of his lifelong contribution to democracy and governance.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of our party leader. We never imagined he would leave us so soon. As a branch, we are in mourning and will also hold a special session to honor his memory,” said Komu.

He urged ODM members and supporters to remain calm and respectful during the mourning period, calling for unity and reflection rather than speculation over the circumstances of Raila’s death.

“We have left everything to God. We urge the government to conduct the national mourning period with dignity. Let our members stay calm and avoid chaos,” Komu added.

Komu also recalled Raila’s relentless push for the protection of the Constitution, saying he always believed that if amendments were ever needed, they should be inclusive and reflect the will of all Kenyans.

Lawyer Ndiba Kihara, the ODM Kiambu County Organizing Secretary, described Raila as a “statesman of great political and social character” whose leadership transcended Kenya’s borders.

“I am still in shock. Raila helped our family personally—he even built a house for my late brother, Peter Young, whom they worked with during the second liberation struggle. I will miss him dearly,” said Kihara.

Kihara lauded Raila for championing devolution, which has brought services closer to the people, and for fostering political stability in recent years.

“Since Raila joined hands with President William Ruto, the country has enjoyed calm and political tolerance. He was a revolutionary and a unifier,” he said.

He further noted that Raila was revered not only in Kenya but across the world, calling on the government to grant him a befitting state funeral.

“Raila deserves a state funeral, he was no ordinary man,” Kihara emphasized.

The ODM Kiambu branch urged Kenyans to maintain peace and unity as the nation mourns one of its most iconic leaders.