Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has paid an emotional tribute to the late Raila Odinga, describing him as a brother, friend, and champion of Kenya's democratic journey.
In a heartfelt message, Musyoka expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Kenya's Second Prime Minister, who died earlier in the day at the age of 80.
Kalonzo Musyoka, who is currently in the United Kingdom on a scheduled 10-day programme, paid tribute to Raila's sacrifices for democracy, noting that he was Kenya's longest-suffering political detainee who endured torture and detention in the fight for multipartyism.
"At the heart of the struggle for multipartyism, Raila's body bore the scars of the slings and arrows, bullets and batons, that no man or woman should ever endure," he stated.
The Wiper leader emphasized Raila's instrumental role in Kenya's constitutional reforms, particularly his contribution to devolving power from an imperial presidency to a people-centered constitutional order leading up to the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution on August 27, 2010.
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Reflecting on their personal and political relationship, Kalonzo highlighted their close collaboration since 2013, when he served twice as Raila's running mate in both the CORD and NASA coalitions, as well as their partnership in the Azimio La Umoja – One Kenya Coalition.
"We learnt a lot from each other, and, shared a lot of pain together," Musyoka revealed, acknowledging the deep bond they had forged over the years.
He extended his condolences to Raila's widow, Mama Ida Odinga, and the entire family, including Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie, assuring them of his family's solidarity during this difficult time.
"Kenya has lost an exemplary leader, the President who won but was never declared and sworn into office. The loss of Rt Hon Raila Odinga is not only a loss to his family and country, but also to the entire African continent."
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Amolo Odinga passed away on Wednesday morning after experiencing cardiac arrest.
The former Prime Minister had been taking a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment facility in Kerala's Ernakulam district when he collapsed.
He was immediately transported to a private hospital in Koothattukulam, where medical personnel declared him dead at 7:22 am. His remains are currently being held at the hospital.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta joined Kenyans in mourning the ODM leader, describing him as a towering statesman and a personal friend. In his message on Wednesday, Uhuru reflected on their shared history, which was marked by rivalry, reconciliation, and unity of purpose. He said the news of Raila's passing had left a deep void in the country and in his own heart.
"My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal. The news of Raila's passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction," he said.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also paid tribute to the fallen leader, recognizing his contributions to Kenya's democracy and Pan-Africanism.
"Baba Raila Odinga, may you rest well. To the family, your spouse Mama Ida Odinga and your children, my family and I join you in prayer during this difficult moment. My deepest sympathies to you and to the people of the Republic of Kenya,” Gachagua stated.
