Siaya Governor James Orengo has called on President William Ruto to protect Kenya’s multiparty democracy and honour the broad-based government agreement that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga helped establish.
Speaking during Raila’s national funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, Orengo said the country’s democratic achievements must not be reversed.
“I appeal to the President to fulfil the ten-point broad-based agenda in honour of Raila. Do not destroy political parties that Kenyans struggled to establish,” Orengo said.
He warned leaders against promoting tribal politics, saying it would undermine the unity and peace that Raila fought for throughout his life.
“Those promoting divisive politics, woe unto you,” he cautioned.
The governor described Raila as an irreplaceable statesman whose influence would continue shaping Kenya’s political future for generations.
“No one can fit into Raila’s shoes. His legacy speaks for itself,” Orengo said, adding that Raila was “a true peacemaker” who devoted his life to fostering national harmony and reconciliation.
“He loved peace and unity. If he could bring President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta together, that alone would be enough testimony,” he said.
Meanwhile, Narok Senator Ledama Olekina dismissed claims that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) would collapse following Raila’s death. He said party members remained committed to Raila’s vision of unity and national progress.
“I know a lot of people are expecting ODM to fight and split, but I want to assure Kenyans that as long as God gives us time on this earth, we will follow Baba’s footsteps,” Olekina said.
“Baba said that we stay together, and that is the message he left for us. I hope we can all come together to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of our hero,” he added.
Olekina recalled Raila’s decision in 2024 to join hands with President Ruto amid anti-government protests triggered by the controversial Finance Bill — a move that led to the formation of a broad-based government credited with restoring stability.
He affirmed ODM’s continued participation in the unity government, despite internal disagreements, saying that Raila’s decision had brought peace and opportunity for dialogue.
“Before Baba went, he showed us the way. He brought us into the broad-based government, and I want to tell you, that is where we are,” he said.
Turning to President Ruto, the senator noted that Raila’s principles would continue to guide ODM.
“Baba would always tell us to go right, and we would not question. I want to assure you, Mr President, for what you have done for us, we shall remain united to go the way Baba wanted — to stay in the broad-based government,” Olekina said.
Raila Odinga passed away on Wednesday in India after suffering cardiac arrest. The nation is observing a seven-day mourning period as he is laid to rest at the family’s Kang’o ka Jaramogi home in Bondo, Siaya County. He was 80.
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