Nairobi: Leaders in the Gusii region joined other regions of the country in mourning the demise of former Prime Minister and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Raila Odinga. Odinga died on Wednesday morning while receiving medical treatment in India.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kisii Governor Simba Arati expressed his condolences to Odinga's family and Kenyans, describing the former Prime Minister as a servant leader devoted to liberating Kenyans from poor governance and guiding the country's democratic path. Arati, also the ODM Deputy Party Leader, regarded Odinga as a mentor and confidant, adding that his death is a significant loss to both the ODM party and the nation.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Fred Matiang'I, remembered Odinga as a statesman and patriot, emphasizing his life as a testament to courage and belief in the Kenyan people's sovereignty. Matiang'i highlighted Odinga's conviction that freedom, democracy, and justice are essential pillars of the Republic, demonstrated through decades of struggle and service.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka also paid tribute to Odinga, popularly known as 'Baba,' recognizing him as an embodiment of Kenya's fight for democracy, justice, and equality. Onyonka noted Odinga's advocacy for marginalized groups and his collaboration with Gusii region leaders like George Moseti Anyona and Zachary Theodore Onyonka in the quest for justice and development.
Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo described Odinga as a consequential leader in post-independent Kenya, noting that his political influence nurtured a trail of leaders from grassroots to national levels over decades.