Governors have joined Kenyans in mourning the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga with Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti describing him as a major advocate for devolution and democracy.
Wavinya while speaking to the press at her office, said that Raila who was the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party leader, encouraged leaders to support devolution and democracy and serve the people of Kenya whole heartedly adding that his passing will leave a big gap to Kenyans.
She recalled his commitment to devolutionary ideals, his influential role in the 10th parliament where he championed for devolution and inclusive governance while encouraging a transparent democratic system that inspired leaders to strive towards a more devolved and democratic society.
“Raila Odinga will be greatly missed and his efforts towards strengthening devolution and democracy must not fade away. We must continue building on his dream for a just and equitable Kenya,” said the Governor.
Wavinya further hailed Raila as a mentor who championed for women leadership and constitutional reforms that promoted inclusion and a stable government that safeguarded human and minority rights.
“Baba was key in supporting devolution with the sole aim of taking development to the grassroots level because of his love for Kenya and I urge leaders to support devolution in his honor,” added Wavinya.
Raila leaves behind a powerful legacy of a reformist, human rights champion, freedom fighter, statesman and a government peace maker that advocated for unity, progress and inclusive governance.
On his part, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga eulogised Odinga, as an astute leader who sacrificed his life for the sake of his country’s development and governance.
The county boss says the country has lost a beacon of hope who dedicated much of his life fighting for the rights of the common man with steadfast dedication.
“As we wrestle with the sad news of the passing on of a legend in our country, the Raila Odinga, and the doyen of Kenyan politics, our hearts are heavy with sorrow but also grateful to God for giving him 80 years of a wonderful life, lived in pursuit of justice and human rights, sometimes at very painful cost to himself and his family,” Kahiga stated on his social media account.
The governor described Raila’s leadership style as admirable and worth emulating, noting he has managed to steer one of the oldest and most formidable political party in the country for more than two decades.
“The late Prime Minister loved and dedicated his life for the betterment of his country and his people. He was at the helm of the ODM party that has just celebrated twenty years of existence, since its inception,” Governor Kahiga noted.
“We celebrate him in a special way for his exceptional way of reinventing himself every time he failed in his quest for power. He believed in never giving up.”
Elsewhere the Governor, Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), Dr. Kamau Thugge has joined the nation in mourning Raila Odinga who passed on Wednesday morning in India after a short illness.
In a press statement, Governor Thugge described the death of Odinga as a moment of profound grief for the people of Kenya, noting that his contribution to the nation’s history, economy, and democracy was immense.
“Odinga’s impact on Kenya’s development and governance will be remembered for generations. Throughout his long career, he shaped the affairs of the nation through his leadership, vision, and wise counsel,” said Governor Thugge.
He extended condolences to the family of the late Odinga, praying that they find comfort and strength during this difficult time.
