Former Cabinet Minister Noah Wekesa recalls his memories with Raila
Former Cabinet Minister and Kwanza Constituency Member of Parliament, Noah Wekesa, has shared memories of his time with the late former Prime Minister and ODM Leader, Raila Odinga.
Speaking to the press in Kitale town on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Trans Nzoia County, Wekesa mourned the former Odinga, describing him as a leader who valued respect for human life and social justice, and consistently advocated for what was right, no matter how unpopular it was.
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The veteran politician stated that the former opposition leader did not tolerate corruption and always sought to ensure that Kenyans received value for their taxes.
“I have lost a personal friend who fought for democracy, brushed shoulders with leaders who wanted to undermine the rule of law, and we remember him for his contribution towards the 2010 Constitution,” Wekesa said.
He further recalled how Odinga trusted him when they served in the Cabinet of the late President Mwai Kibaki.
“We went to China together, and we were there for two weeks. Part of the delegation left earlier, but he told me to remain there with him because we were pursuing very serious matters,” he added.
Wekesa further revealed that Odinga spent some nights in his Kitale residence and campaigned for him when he vied for the Trans Nzoia County Gubernatorial seat in the 2013 general elections.
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“When I wanted to be the first Governor of Trans Nzoia through ODM, Raila Odinga came here and campaigned for me. He knew how to keep friends,” added the politician.
Silas Yego
In the Naisambu area of Kiminini Constituency, Retired Bishop of the African Inland Church (AIC), Kenya, Silas Yego, said he has lost a personal friend who had great values.
“Many people don’t know that Raila was my personal friend. Many people also do not know that mzee could not hold grudges. He forgave and forgot so fast,” Yego told the press.
He added that Odinga trusted him and a few other religious leaders. He stated that he advised Odinga during the 2008 peace talks that led to the formation of the Grand Coalition government, negotiated by the late United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
“To Mama Ida and your family, I convey my heartfelt condolences. We pray for you so that God grants you strength to overcome the loss of your husband and father of your children,” Bishop Emeritus added.
