Mombasa: Hundreds of Mombasa residents on Thursday thronged the streets to mourn and celebrate the life of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose death has drawn an outpouring of grief across the country and beyond.
According to Kenya News Agency, the peaceful procession commenced at the Mombasa Central Business District to the County Assembly before ending at Uhuru Gardens, where mourners lit candles and sang in honour of the late leader. Speaking during the vigil, Nominated MCA Pamela Ojala described Raila as a statesman who dedicated his life to democracy, human rights, and national unity. Ojala stated, "Kenya has lost the father of devolution and the 2010 Constitution. Raila always stood for peace and unity. Whenever the nation faced turmoil, he was the voice of calm. His death leaves a huge void."
Lamu County ODM Chairperson Aisha Nizar, who joined the gathering, said Raila's passing was a national tragedy that called for calm and reflection. "The whole nation and the region are shaken. We have lost a great tree that sheltered many. I urge Kenyans to maintain peace as we mourn and celebrate his life," Nizar said.
Moses Aran, an ODM supporter, noted that the gathering in Mombasa was a gesture of solidarity for those unable to travel to Nairobi for the national mourning. "As Mombasa residents, we felt it was important to honour Raila here. It is a sad day for the country, but his spirit will continue to unite us," he said.
Ali Kubo, a student leader from the Technical University of Mombasa, highlighted that Raila's impact transcended political and ethnic lines. "Raila was not a leader for one community or region. He was a national figure who inspired millions. We are here to stand with the rest of the country in celebrating his legacy," Kubo said.
Mvita resident Dan Owino described the gathering as a celebration of a life dedicated to service. "We are here not only to mourn but to celebrate a selfless leader who fought for Kenya's second liberation and unity. Raila will be remembered for bringing Kenyans together regardless of ethnicity or background," he said.
Eunice Karisa from Likoni praised Raila for his efforts in promoting inclusivity and empowering women and persons with disabilities. "Raila's legacy will live on through the leaders he mentored and the causes he championed. He may be gone, but his vision for an equal and just Kenya remains," she said.