By Rodgers Wagura
Kenya is in mourning following the death of Raila Odinga, a towering figure whose political life spanned decades.
His passing marks the end of an era for a leader who devoted his life to democracy, unity, and national transformation.
Businessman and political leader Dr Thuo Mathenge described Raila’s death as a dark day, calling him “a great pillar of Kenya” who brought peace during moments of crisis.
Dr Mathenge recalled Raila’s role in the multi-party struggle of the 1980s and 1990s alongside leaders such as James Orengo, Paul Muite, Kiraitu Murungi, Martha Karua, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and Kenneth Matiba.
“Raila’s resilience was legendary. Detained multiple times for opposing authoritarian rule, he emerged each time more determined to push for reforms. Even after being denied the presidency in contested elections, he repeatedly chose reconciliation over division, famously working with his rivals to stabilize the nation. His role in the 2002 transition and the 2008 Grand Coalition paved the way for the 2010 Constitution and devolution,” Dr Mathenge the Party leader for The New Democrats (TND) party and chairman of Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) said in a press briefing at his Bantu Lodge hotel near Nyeri town.
Similar attributes were made by the Principal Secretary for East African Community Affairs Dr. Caroline Karugu who further hailed Raila as a “tribeless patriot” who “breathed life into the vision of devolution and stood firm for it until his last breath.”
In a statement issued separately, Dr Karugu praised his inclusivity, courage, and mentorship, calling his leadership a bridge across divides.
Mt Kenya Times