Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i on Monday led a delegation from Kisii and Nyamira counties to Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County.[Courtesy]
By Kimberly Kalusi
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i on Monday led a powerful delegation from Kisii and Nyamira counties to Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, where they paid a solemn visit to Mama Ida Odinga following the passing of her husband, former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.
The delegation, which included political heavyweights, elders, and community leaders, was warmly received by Mama Ida before proceeding to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, where they laid wreaths at Raila’s grave — a gesture of respect to a man they described as “a national icon whose influence transcended tribe and region.”
The Gusii delegation comprised notable figures including former Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, former senators Prof. Sam Ongeri and Chris Obure, MPs Clive Gisairo, Anthony Kibagendi, and Obadiah Barongo, and former MPs Janet Ong’era and Omingo Magara. They were joined by the Gusii Council of Elders and several MCAs from both counties.
Speaking during the visit, Matiang’i said the group deliberately waited until the crowds had thinned to allow for a “more personal and reflective” condolence visit to the Odinga family.
“We came to share in this moment of reflection and solidarity. Baba was not just a Luo leader — he was a symbol of Kenya’s unity. His vision was for Project Kenya, not Project Nyanza,” Matiang’i said.
He described Raila as a “teacher and patriot” whose courage and resilience shaped Kenya’s democracy. Matiang’i also proposed the establishment of a Raila Odinga Institute or Library to immortalize his contribution to Kenya’s political, social, and development journey.
“When that time comes, we will be among the first to support it. Raila’s story is Kenya’s story — one of sacrifice, resilience, and unyielding belief in a better nation,” he added.
The former CS also praised Mama Ida for her strength and grace, saying her calm leadership had inspired millions of women across the country.
Raila’s son, Raila Junior Odinga, thanked the delegation, describing the visit as a testament to the deep bond between the Gusii and Luo communities — a bond his father worked tirelessly to nurture.
“Baba always said the love from Kisii was special. He believed in regional unity and often reminded us that Kenya’s strength lies in her diversity,” he said.
Raila Junior also revealed that the Odinga home remains open to all visitors, regardless of faith or background, saying, “Whether Christian or Muslim, everyone is welcome to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi. Our doors remain open to all who wish to honor Baba.”
Prof. Sam Ongeri, a veteran Kisii politician, called Ida a “mother of the region,” thanking her for the warm reception and recalling Raila’s pivotal role in uniting Nyanza.
“Raila Odinga broke barriers that divided our communities for years. He was a peacemaker, a bridge builder, and a mentor to many of us,” Ongeri said.
The visit added to the steady stream of condolence delegations trooping to Opoda Farm since the burial, including groups from the Mount Kenya region, Rift Valley, and Coastal counties, all paying homage to a man whose political journey defined generations.
As the leaders departed, they pledged to work together to keep Raila’s dream for a united, prosperous Kenya alive.
“The best way to honor Raila is to live his ideals — reject tribalism, serve with integrity, and always put Kenya first,” Matiang’i concluded.
