Senate seating on October 16, 2025. Photo by PBU 
By Ryan Mumo
The Senate on Thursday afternoon convened a Special Sitting to honour the life and legacy of the late former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday morning in India.
The session, filled with solemn tributes and emotional recollections, saw Senators from both sides of the political divide celebrate the former Prime Minister as a fearless reformer, a patriot, and a towering figure in Kenya’s democratic and political journey.
The Motion of tribute was moved by Deputy Minority Leader Sen. Enoch Wambua (Kitui) and seconded by Deputy Majority Leader Sen. Tabitha Karanja (Nakuru). In it, the House reflected on Mr. Odinga’s long and distinguished career in public service, which spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
Lawmakers noted that Mr. Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, during the Grand Coalition Government formed after the post-election crisis, and previously held various senior Cabinet positions, including Minister for Energy, Roads, Public Works, and Housing. He also served as the Member of Parliament for Lang’ata Constituency for four consecutive terms from 1992 to 2013.
Senators lauded Mr. Odinga’s central role in shaping Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy, championing constitutional reforms, and deepening the principles of good governance, accountability, and inclusive leadership.
Sen. Wambua described the late Odinga as a man who “dedicated his life to the pursuit of democracy, justice, and equality,” citing his pivotal contribution to the enactment of the 2010 Constitution, his strong advocacy for devolution, and his instrumental role in national reconciliation through the 2008 National Accord and Reconciliation Act.
The Motion also recognized Odinga’s continental influence through his service as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, where he spearheaded initiatives aimed at boosting regional integration and cross-border connectivity.
“Mr. Odinga’s vision went beyond Kenya. He believed in a united and prosperous Africa connected through infrastructure and shared values,” Sen. Wambua stated.
In his official communication to the House, Temporary Speaker Sen. Abdul Haji (Garissa) paid glowing tribute to the late statesman, describing him as a “visionary leader whose contribution to Kenya’s development and democracy will never be forgotten.”
Sen. Haji highlighted landmark projects initiated under Odinga’s leadership, including the Thika Superhighway, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and major urban bypasses in Nairobi and other regions. He also praised Odinga’s efforts in environmental conservation, particularly his role in the restoration of the Mau Forest.
“The late Odinga remained steadfast despite electoral setbacks, always choosing the path of peace and dialogue for the stability of the nation,” Sen. Haji said, adding that “he set aside his political ambitions for the survival and unity of Kenya.”
The Senate unanimously resolved to record its sincere appreciation of Raila Odinga’s monumental contribution to the nation and the continent, describing him as a symbol of resilience, courage, and selfless service.
The session concluded with Senators observing a moment of silence in honour of the fallen leader — a fitting tribute to a man many hailed as the Father of Kenya’s modern democracy.
