Siaya county assembly holds special sitting to mourn Raila Odinga

K24 Digital Reporter 16th October, 2025 06:16 PM

Caption:Siaya county assembly holds special sitting to mourn Raila Odinga. VIDEO/K24TV

The Siaya County Assembly convened a special session on Thursday, October 16, 2025, to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday while undergoing treatment in India.

Also Watch: Thousands throng Nairobi CBD to pay last respects to Raila Odinga

The solemn sitting commenced with a minute of silence in memory of Odinga. Speaker George Okode then opened the plenary, inviting members to reflect on the life and legacy of the iconic statesman.

“Raila Odinga was not just a leader; he was the conscience of our democracy,” said Speaker Okode, also adding, “His voice echoed the hopes of millions, and his courage inspired generations.”

At the time, members of the County Assembly took turns eulogising the ODM party leader, recalling his steadfast dedication to democracy, justice, and national unity over decades of public service.

Booker Bonyo, MCA for North Uyoma Ward, remarked, “He taught us that politics is not about power; it’s about service. His legacy will guide us for years to come.”

In a separate gathering, political and religious leaders from across Siaya County, led by officials from the ODM party’s Alego Usonga branch, also expressed their condolences.

“We have lost a pillar of our movement,” said ODM Alego Usonga chairperson Okoth Rondo. “But we must carry forward his dream of a united and just Kenya.”

Church leaders under the Siaya County Church Leaders’ Forum echoed similar sentiments. Archbishop James Opiyo Anyango urged for calm and unity: “Let us honour Baba’s memory by embracing peace. His life was a testament to resilience and reconciliation.”

Bishop Wilfred Amolo added, “Even in grief, we must remember his message: Kenya belongs to all of us, and let us all maintain peace even as we mourn.”

Unlike the previous day, when Bondo town came to a standstill as mourners thronged Mr Odinga’s home, businesses reopened on Thursday. Still, a sombre mood lingered. Residents gathered quietly in restaurants and public spaces, watching live television coverage of Mr Odinga’s body arriving back in the country.

At his Opoda home, friends and relatives continued to stream in, chanting slogans and singing traditional dirges. “We are here to celebrate his life, not just mourn his death,” said family friend Mary Atieno. “He gave us hope, and we will never forget him.”

Preparations are underway for his burial, scheduled for Sunday at his father’s home in Kang’o Kajaramogi, Bondo Constituency.