Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a towering statesman whose legacy is deeply woven into Kenya’s democratic history.

“On behalf of myself, my family and the people of Nakuru County, I offer my deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, the Odinga family and all Kenyans during this time of immense loss,” said Governor Kihika.

She praised Mr Odinga’s lifelong struggle for justice, civil liberties and electoral reform, noting that his courage and resilience had inspired generations and given a voice to the millions who yearned for a freer and fairer Kenya.

“Even when the cost was high, Raila remained resolute in his pursuit of freedom and fairness for all. As a master of political mobilisation, he united Kenyans across ethnic and regional lines and advocated for a nation built on equity and unity," she said.

Governor Kihika also credited Mr Odinga’s statesmanship during the June 2024 demonstrations over the Finance Bill, saying that his call for dialogue had helped to avert a crisis.

Former Nakuru Governor and Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui also paid tribute to the ODM leader, describing him as a man who transcended political boundaries.

“I did not know Raila as a friend for a long time. For years, he was on the other side and our paths rarely crossed until the last election. That meeting, after a call from former President Uhuru Kenyatta, marked the beginning of a meaningful journey where we shared deep reflections about our country’s future," Mr Kinyanjui recalled

Mr Kinyanjui described Raila as “a pragmatic and dedicated statesman who always saw the best in Kenya”, adding that, in his final years, he had devoted himself selflessly to healing the political wounds that had long divided the country and, in many ways, he had succeeded.

Leaders from across the political spectrum also paid tribute. Among them was Nakuru Woman Representative Liza Chelule, who hailed Raila as 'a true patriot, statesman and champion of democracy'.

"Kenya has lost a great son. May he rest in peace,” she said.

Governor Kihika, Lee Kinyanjui pay tribute to the late former prime minister Raila Odinga

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Leleti Jassor