Thousands of mourners who gathered at Nyayo Stadium were visibly moved and energized by a powerful sermon delivered by Prof. David Kodia, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Bondo, during the State Funeral Service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In his address, the Bishop strongly criticized leaders who exploit their positions for personal gain instead of serving the nation, saying such behavior went against Raila’s lifelong mission for Kenya’s freedom and justice.
“When we’re proclaiming the Word, we should not be fearful. Word proclaimed must have the power to transform, to make us renewed in our strength in the liberation of our country from those who are looting everything from us, from the country level to everywhere,” he stated amidst the crowd’s cheer.
“If there’s anyone here, at whatever level, be a governor, MCA, who has looted this country, you know you stand the chance to be condemned.”
The Bishop condemned leaders who had degraded their positions by turning Kenya into a breeding ground for corruption.
He lamented that such conduct had bred a “culture of handouts,” where citizens are compelled to offer favors in return for basic services.
“The question is how do we apply the power to proclaim what God has given us for the good of the nation, of humanity. Baba is one such politician who never used the power of money to intimidate people. Today, we have bad manners among our politicians. They have taught our people the culture of handouts that whatever you want, you must part with money and woe unto those who drive with big vehicles, you’re in big trouble,” the bishop noted.
“Baba never used the power of his wallet as a convincing tool to others, but he used the power of persuasion. He used the power of the word. Let’s allow ourselves to be used by God so that the power He gave us is the power that is correcting, reconciling and rebuking what is evil.”
“How many can fit in the shoes of Raila Odinga today? How many?”
After his sermon, the congregation rose to their feet in applause, waving Kenyan flags in admiration of the Bishop’s bold message.
Once the state funeral service concludes, members of the public will have a chance to pay their final respects before the body is taken to Raila’s Karen residence for an overnight vigil. On Saturday, the cortege will depart Nairobi for Kisumu, where another public viewing will take place at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo.
The burial is scheduled for Sunday in Raila Odinga’s hometown of Bondo.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
