Rev Joseph Otieno: Honour Raila by not beating your wife, husband
Reverend Joseph Otieno has urged Kenyans to honour the memory of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga by promoting peace and respect within their homes.
Speaking during the burial service in Bondo on Sunday, October 19, 2025, the reverend called on citizens to live by the values Raila stood for, including justice, care, and equality.
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Reverend Otieno described Raila as a man who valued harmony and fairness, not only in politics but also in personal relationships. He appealed to the public to express their respect for Raila through peaceful living, saying, “When you go home, honour Raila by not beating your wife or your husband.”
He added that the former Prime Minister was a strong advocate against gender violence and believed in empowering both men and women equally.
Raila’s legacy of justice and equality
The reverend further called on Kenyans to ensure the election of more women into leadership positions, saying this would be one of the best ways to honour Raila’s memory.
“I want to plead that the country elect the right number of women to all the electoral positions. Because that will please the late Prime Minister,” he said.
Also watch: Nation mourns as Raila’s final journey reaches Bondo
He praised Raila for his lifelong fight for equality and social justice, noting that he consistently stood for the weak and the oppressed.
“Raila was a politician who always listened to the ground. Let us always listen to the people of Kenya, and let justice flow like a river,” Reverend Otieno added.
The reverend went on to share a personal story that reflected Raila’s caring nature. “One time he came to our home with Oburu, and after my wife had given them tea and uji, they were going to a rally… he was caring,” he recalled.
According to him, Raila’s kindness extended beyond politics — he cared deeply for his brother Oburu and for the welfare of those around him. Reverend Otieno concluded by urging everyone to focus on Raila’s positive qualities and continue his legacy through acts of love and respect.
“Pick something positive to remember him,” he said, emphasising that Kenya would best honour Raila by embracing peace, justice, and unity both in homes and across the nation.
