A Nation Bids Farewell: Honouring the Life and Legacy of the Late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, CGH
Kenya stood united in reflection and reverence as we laid to rest one of our nation’s most iconic sons the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, CGH. On this solemn day, as the sun set over the hills of Bondo, the nation honoured a leader whose life had been defined by resilience, courage, and an unwavering devotion to the ideals of democracy, justice, and national unity.
Raila Odinga’s journey mirrored the struggle and triumph of our Republic. From the days of sacrifice and imprisonment to the heights of statesmanship, he had dedicated his life to advancing the cause of freedom and equality for all Kenyans. His was a voice that had spoken truth to power, a heart that had felt deeply for the marginalized, and a spirit that had never bowed to oppression.
As the final rites were concluded and the nation gathered in shared mourning, we recognized that Raila Odinga had not been just a political leader he had been a movement. He carried within him the aspirations of millions, the courage of generations, and the vision of a Kenya that could rise above division to embrace peace and progress.
Even in the face of adversity, Raila had remained steadfast. He forgave when others sought vengeance. He reconciled when many demanded retributions. He believed in dialogue, in the strength of unity, and in the power of hope. His belief that “Kenya belongs to all” had not been merely a slogan it was a guiding principle that had shaped his every act of service. We paid tribute to a man whose footprints marked every chapter of our national history. His leadership had spanned decades, influencing reforms, nurturing democracy, and inspiring countless young leaders to believe in the transformative power of public service.
Raila Odinga’s passing left a void in the national conscience, yet his vision endured. His ideals of justice, fairness, and inclusivity continued to light our path as we built the Kenya, he had dreamed of a Kenya that is strong, free, and united. To Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, we conveyed our heartfelt condolences. Their strength, grace, and resilience throughout his journey stood as a testament to love and courage. Kenya joined them in mourning a husband, father, and national hero whose life left an indelible mark on our history.
As we closed this chapter, we opened a new one guided by his legacy. We resolved to honour him not only in word but in deed: by promoting unity over division, justice over prejudice, and service over self-interest. BABA, WEWE ULIIKUWA SHUJAA. The soil of your beloved homeland received you with honour, and your spirit lives on in the heart of every Kenyan who dares to dream of a better tomorrow.
You fought the good fight. You carried Kenya’s hopes on your shoulders and gave your life to its progress. You inspired a generation to believe that courage and truth could change a nation.
May your soul rest in eternal peace, and may your legacy continue to inspire the pursuit of a more just and united Kenya.
Fare thee well, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, CGH.