Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi on Wednesday visited Bondo to console the family of the late Raila Odinga, describing him as a true statesman whose leadership left an indelible mark on Kenya.
Speaking at the Odinga family home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Siaya County, Mudavadi said the country continues to feel the void left by Raila’s passing, noting that his legacy of dignity, hard work, honesty, and courage will continue to inspire generations.
“The country misses his firm leadership and the values he stood for. His legacy will continue to guide us as we work towards a just, united, and prosperous Kenya,” Mudavadi said.
He extended his condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, terming Raila’s death a big blow not just to the family, but to the nation.
“Mine was just to come again and tell the family that we continue to miss and grieve the loss of a statesman and a mentor to many. As leaders from Western Kenya, we stand in solidarity with the family and pray that God’s grace continues to strengthen them,” he said.
Mudavadi recalled his close friendship with Raila, fondly remembering their humorous exchanges.
“I deeply miss our warm moments the ‘Mwana wa Hannah’ and ‘Woud Mary’ jokes that went beyond politics and reminded us of our shared bonds of friendship, faith, and love for Kenya,” he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary led a delegation of dignitaries and leaders from Western Kenya who had come to pay their respects to the former Prime Minister.
He commended the large turnout of leaders and citizens who gathered to celebrate Raila’s life and legacy.
Mudavadi also thanked retired Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo for travelling all the way from Ghana to honour Raila, describing his visit as a true gesture of friendship.
“Thank you for coming. This was your real friend, and you came all the way from Ghana to stand with us and the Odinga family. It is an honour not only to the family but also to the people of Kenya,” he said.
Akufo-Addo, who was among the first world leaders to send condolences after Raila’s passing on October 15, recalled the personal moments he shared with the late ODM leader and expressed his deep shock at the news of his death.
Later, the delegation visited Mama Ida Odinga at their Opoda Farm, where they joined residents of Bondo in celebrating the life and legacy of “Baba.”
Among the leaders present were National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, retired Attorney General Amos Wako, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, former Cabinet Minister Noah Wekesa, and governors James Orengo (Siaya), Fernandes Barasa (Kakamega), and Paul Otuoma (Busia).
Others included Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, Principal Secretary for Higher Education Beatrice Inyangala, Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary Joseph Busiega, several Members of Parliament, County Assembly members, and other national and local leaders.