Bondo ACK bishop Kodia: Raila never used money to intimidate people
ACK Bishop of Bondo Diocese David Kodia, without mentioning names, has castigated a section of corrupt leaders whose work is to entice the masses with money instead of providing solutions.
Speaking during the State Funeral of the late ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025, the Bishop described Raila as a man of integrity who never used wealth or influence to manipulate the people he led.
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“Baba 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,” Bishop Kodia said as mourners applauded in agreement.
He warned that Kenya is slowly losing its moral compass as leaders prioritise money and personal gain over service and values, urging politicians to emulate the late Raila’s humility and people-centred leadership.
The man of God condemned leaders who are fond of dishing out money and handouts to influence citizens, saying such behaviour undermines democracy and accountability.
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His statement comes at a time when several government officials have been touring different parts of the country promoting economic drives, a move critics say has been politicised through tokenism and selective generosity.
“If there’s anyone here at whatever level who has looted this country, you stand the chance to be condemned,” Rev. Kodia declared, drawing cheers from the crowd at Nyayo Stadium.
He went on to challenge leaders to reflect on the legacy of the late Raila Odinga, saying that the former Prime Minister led with courage, wisdom and a vision for a united Kenya.
Bishop praises Raila’s wisdom
“God gave Raila Odinga the wisdom to unite Kenyans. How many can fit in his shoes?
“As we honour him today, let’s see ourselves as Kenyans first and not our regions, where we come from. Kenya is too small to be divided into regions,” Bishop Kodia said.
The Bishop urged Kenyans to celebrate Raila’s values of honesty, patriotism and inclusion, saying the country should not allow divisions to overshadow the unity he fought for.
The late Raila Odinga’s State Funeral, attended by thousands of Kenyans and several African leaders, has continued to highlight his unmatched legacy as a reformer and unifier whose influence extended far beyond politics.
