Kaluma mourns Raila Odinga: You were too good to be human
By Paulette Mboga, October 19, 2025Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has paid an emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a man whose selflessness and forgiveness set him apart from ordinary human beings.
Kaluma, on Saturday, October 19, 2025, said Raila’s life was defined by sacrifice, courage, and unmatched patriotism, noting that his decisions at critical moments in Kenya’s history saved the nation from collapse.
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Kaluma recalled several moments when Raila put the country’s interests before his own political ambitions.
“Who would forgive Moi after detaining him without trial for nearly nine years, if not Baba?” Kaluma posed, referring to Raila’s ability to reconcile with former President Daniel arap Moi despite his suffering during the Nyayo era.
Raila’s unmatched sacrifices
The MP further reflected on the 2007 post-election crisis, recalling how Raila agreed to share power with President Mwai Kibaki to prevent Kenya from sliding into chaos.
“Who would let his win go to Kibaki to save Kenya from collapse in 2007, if not only Baba?” he said.
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Kaluma went on to highlight Raila’s 2017 handshake with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, describing it as another act of national healing.
“Who would shake hands with Uhuru after stealing his election in 2017, as confirmed by the Supreme Court, if not Baba?” he said.
He also mentioned Raila’s political magnanimity over the years, pointing out his decision to make Kalonzo Musyoka his running mate despite their fallout in 2007.
“Who would make Kalonzo his running mate or deputy after he disappeared with ODM-K and later shared his win with Kibaki in 2007, if not Baba?” Kaluma stated.
The legislator further reminded Kenyans of Raila’s choice of Martha Karua as his running mate in the 2022 election, despite their political rivalry in 2007.
“Who would appoint Martha Karua as his running mate or deputy after she stole his election victory in 2007, if not only Baba?” he remarked.
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Kaluma described Raila as a man who consistently rose above bitterness and revenge, even when he had every reason to act otherwise.
“Who, while standing to be the greatest beneficiary, would stop the situation Kenya faced in 2024 to save his country, if not only Baba?” he said.
“Rest with the Angels, Baba. You were too good to be human, Baba,” Kaluma concluded.
