Orengo, Sakaja visit Raila’s grave 2 days after burial
By Nancy Marende, October 21, 2025Siaya Governor James Orengo and his Nairobi counterpart, Johnson Sakaja, have visited the home of the late Raila Amolo Odinga in Bondo, two days after the former Prime Minister’s burial.
Accompanied by his wife, Betty Murungi, Orengo joined members of the Odinga family, including Mama Ida Odinga, Oburu Oginga, and Ruth Odinga, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to pay his respects and offer comfort in the aftermath of Kenya’s national loss.
Also watch: Uhuru Kenyatta pays quiet tribute at Raila Odinga’s grave in Bondo
Reflecting on the somber visit, Orengo noted that the true weight of grief often settles in after the ceremonies are over.
“Losing a loved one sinks even deeper after the burial,” he said. “It’s in these quiet moments that the bereaved need our comfort the most.”
“Raila Odinga was a mighty tree under whose shade many found shelter. His legacy will forever stand tall.”
Orengo eulogises Raila
Speaking during Raila’s funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Orengo, eulogised Odinga as a true peacemaker who dedicated his life to the unity and stability of Kenya.
He said that Raila has consistently cherished peace and reconciliation throughout his political career.
“He loved peace and unity. If he could bring President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta together, that alone would be enough testimony,” Orengo said.
Also watch: Ruto: Raila’s legacy was Kenya’s good leadership, not presidency
The governor criticised those who have continued to oppose Raila while ignoring his sacrifices for democracy and justice in Kenya.
Orengo appealed to President Ruto to honour existing political arrangements and protect the multiparty system that took Kenyans decades to build.
“I appeal to the President to fulfill the ten-point broad-based agenda in honour of Raila. Do not destroy political parties that Kenyans struggled to establish,” he said.
He further cautioned leaders against engaging in tribal politics, terming it a step backwards in the democratic gains the country has made.
“Those promoting divisive politics, woe unto you,” Orengo warned.
Also watch: Governor Wanga appeals to Kenyans to keep Raila’s dream alive
The governor described Raila as an irreplaceable statesman whose legacy will continue to shape Kenya’s political landscape for generations.
“No one can fit into Raila’s shoes. His legacy speaks for itself,” Orengo said