In London, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka spoke through tears as he paid tribute to Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “my brother, the unsworn president” in a moving message on social media. The emotional outpouring came shortly after news of Raila’s death, revealing just how deeply personal the loss is for many who stood alongside him through years of political struggle.
Kalonzo’s tribute, posted from Heathrow Airport, came as he prepared to interrupt his UK itinerary and return home for the state funeral. In his message, he reflected on the deep bond they shared—not only as political collaborators, but as men bound by a mutual vision of justice and service. He spoke of Raila’s resilience, calling him an extraordinary leader whose sacrifices reshaped Kenya’s democratic landscape.
He recalled how Raila’s life was defined by hardship and perseverance—the detentions, the battles for fairness, and the moments of resurgence. “He was the President who won but was never declared,” Kalonzo said, referencing long-standing debates over electoral justice in Kenya. He evoked Raila’s requests to the heavens after each release from detention, painting a picture of a man who never surrendered despite relentless challenges.
Their political journey was intertwined. Over multiple election cycles, they had stood together—first in CORD (2013), then NASA (2017), and later under the Azimio la Umoja banner (2022), where Kalonzo served as running mate. Kalonzo described their partnership as one marked by both joy and pain, full of shared dreams, debates, and sacrifices.
In closing, Kalonzo pledged solidarity to Ida Odinga, their children, and the wider family. He asked for strength and faith, saying the nation mourned with them. He ended his message with a simple prayer: “May God rest the soul of Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga in everlasting peace.”
His tribute stands out not simply for its emotion, but as a reminder that Raila Odinga’s life was more than political—it was deeply personal and profoundly shared among those who believed in him.
IMAGE : K24 DIGITAL
