By Andrew Mbuva
The death of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH, Kenya’s second Prime Minister and long-time opposition leader, has sent a wave of grief across the nation — and the Lower Eastern region is no exception.
Prominent Kamba leaders have joined millions of Kenyans in mourning the man they described as the “Father of Democracy” and a “true patriot” whose legacy will endure for generations.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti paid glowing tribute to Raila, describing him as “the Father of Democracy in Kenya and a true political father whose unwavering commitment to justice, unity, and democratic ideals transformed our country’s political landscape.”
“Raila Odinga dedicated his life to serving Kenya with courage, resilience, and an unshakeable belief in a better, more just nation,” she said in her condolence message. “His legacy of leadership and sacrifice will continue to inspire generations across our land. May they find strength and comfort in the enduring impact of his life and service. Rest in peace, Baba!”
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior called it “a very sad day for Kenya,” noting that Raila’s passing marked the end of an era in the country’s political journey.
“On behalf of my wife Anita and the people of Makueni County, we express our deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, the children, and the entire family,” said Mutula. “He was a remarkable individual whose contributions will be remembered for generations. His courage in championing a better Kenya for all remains unmatched.”
Mutula recalled a personal encounter with Raila in 2013 when he announced his Senate bid. “He said the following words at Serena Hotel — ‘The King is dead, long live the king!’ Those words were profound then, and I pray they become a building block for his family from today onwards,” he said.
Kitui Senator Enoch Kiio Wambua, in his heartfelt message, described Raila as “a towering statesman, a fearless defender of democracy, and a true patriot whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the well-being of every Kenyan.”
“Baba dedicated his entire adult life to the pursuit of freedom and unity for our country,” said the Senate Deputy Minority Leader. “Kenya has lost a visionary leader; Africa has lost a son of great honour; the world has lost a selfless defender of human and people’s rights.”
He added that Raila had great faith in his leadership, often entrusting him with critical national assignments within the Azimio-OKA coalition. “We, his political disciples, have lost a mentor whose wisdom and courage will continue to inspire generations to come,” Wambua stated.
Former Machakos Senator and current Parliamentary Service Commission Commissioner Johnstone Muthama also paid tribute, describing Raila as “a patriot, Pan-Africanist, and liberator.”
“He will forever be remembered for his immense contribution to Kenya’s growth — from championing constitutional reforms to fostering unity and democracy,” Muthama said. “Politics aside, I have always held a special place in my heart for Jakom. To me, he was the president who never was — a true statesman who embodied resilience, sacrifice, and hope.”
Muthama noted that Raila’s passing leaves a void that will take time to fill. “He was not just a leader; he was a symbol of our collective struggle and dreams. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
As Kenya comes to terms with the passing of Raila Odinga, the Kamba region — a key political ally of the veteran leader — has joined the nation in mourning the man whose fight for democracy reshaped the nation’s destiny.
