Raila condoles with grieving Kilifi governor
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Leader Raila Odinga has joined the political class in condoling with the family of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, following the death of his father on Sunday, June 15, 2025.
Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior passed away on the morning of Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Kilifi County Referral Hospital.
With the news of the demise prompting an outpouring of condolences, Raila becomes the latest high-profile politician to convey his heartfelt condolences.
In a statement shared via his X page, Raila termed Mzee Baya as a visionary leader of the Kaya and a hospitable man.
Visionary Kaya elder
“I am saddened by the news that ex-Chief Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro has passed on. He is the father of HE Hon. Gideon Maitha Mung’aro, the Governor of Kilifi County. Mzee Mung’aro senior was a visionary man and embodied the spirit of love and unity of the people of the greater Gede community in Kilifi County. As a Kaya elder, he championed the rights of the native communities at the coast, popularly known as the Mijikenda Community,” part of Raila’s tribute read.
The ODM leader recalled his past trips to the Gede location to meet the patriarch, recounting how hospitable the elder was.
“I recall meeting him on numerous occasions, and he was always jovial and ready to welcome visitors to his home. On behalf of my family, the ODM fraternity, and on my own behalf, I wish to extend heartfelt condolences to Governor Mung’aro, the entire Mung’aro family, the people of Kilifi County and the entire coast region for the loss. May God grant you peace and strength during this difficult time of mourning,” he added.
Other leaders who mourned the late Mzee include Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, and his Homa Bay counterpart Gladys Wanga.
Joho, a close ally of Mung’aro, conveyed his sadness upon learning of the death.
“It is with profound sadness that I have received the heartbreaking news of the passing of Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior… I extend my deepest condolences to my dear brother and friend, Gideon Mungaro… I share in your pain and loss and pray that the Almighty God comfort you and your family. May the Almighty God grant the soul of Mzee Gideon Mung’aro Senior everlasting peace,” he said.
“With deep sorrow, we send our condolences to Honourable Governor Gideon Mung’aro following the death of his beloved father, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro. We pray that he rests in peace and that the family finds comfort.” Mombasa governor’s tribute of the elder read.
