By Mutunga Tobbias / The Common Pulse/latest news /US/ Kenya/Abroad/Africa / OCTOBER2025.
Nairobi and Kenya Mourn the Passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga
The streets of Nairobi are alive with emotion, a city pulsating with grief and remembrance, as residents congregate in various parts of the capital to honor the life and legacy of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga. Kenya has lost one of its greatest sons, a man whose name is synonymous with courage, conviction, and the relentless pursuit of justice and equality. Across the nation, from bustling urban centers to quiet rural villages, Kenyans reflect on a life that touched millions, a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the hope of a nation yet to be fully realized.
A Life of Courage and Conviction
Raila Odinga’s journey was marked by resilience, a steadfast commitment to principle, and the courage to challenge the status quo even in the face of adversity. From his early days in political activism to his role as a statesman on the national and international stage, Raila embodied the spirit of a leader who placed the welfare of his people above personal ambition. He navigated storms with a calm resolve, celebrated triumphs with humility, and remained a constant beacon of hope for generations of Kenyans seeking justice, democracy, and equality. His courage was not only in political battles but also in championing the causes of the marginalized, the oppressed, and those whose voices were often silenced.
A Personal Reflection on Leadership and Mentorship
For those of us who had the privilege of knowing Raila personally, his passing resonates deeply. On a personal level, he played a transformative role in my twenty-year political journey, not merely as a leader, but as a father, a teacher, and a mentor whose belief in my potential never wavered. It was Raila who personally inducted me as a member of Dujis in 2007, setting me on a path of service that continues to shape my life and career. His guidance was gentle yet firm, his encouragement unwavering, and his faith in the potential of young leaders a testament to his vision for a better Kenya. My family and I remain forever indebted to him for the warmth, faith, and mentorship he extended so generously, lessons that will continue to influence our path forward.
Uniting a Nation Through Vision and Principle
Raila’s legacy is one that transcends politics. It is a legacy of unity, courage, principle, and an unwavering love for Kenya. He understood that leadership was not merely about holding office but about nurturing a vision for the nation, inspiring hope, and fostering a culture of service. He bridged divides, engaged in dialogue where others opted for discord, and stood firm in his convictions even when it was politically inconvenient. His commitment to democratic ideals and human rights reshaped the political landscape of Kenya, setting a benchmark for integrity, resilience, and principled leadership.
Celebrating a Life of Service
As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate a life that leaves behind lessons for future generations. Raila’s journey was not defined solely by the offices he held but by the principles he championed, the people he uplifted, and the vision he never abandoned. His life reminds us that leadership is measured not by accolades but by the positive impact one has on the lives of others, the courage to speak truth to power, and the ability to inspire hope amidst uncertainty. Communities continue to gather, not just to grieve, but to honor his contributions to education, infrastructure, social justice, and the relentless pursuit of a nation united under shared values.
The Enduring Influence of a National Icon
Raila Odinga leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide Kenya long after his passing. His life story serves as a compass for young leaders, a reminder that integrity, empathy, and courage are essential ingredients of transformative leadership. He inspired generations to believe that change is possible, that voices matter, and that collective effort can shape a nation’s destiny. Through his mentorship, he cultivated a cadre of leaders committed to the values he held dear, ensuring that his vision for Kenya will not fade but continue to thrive in the hearts and minds of those he influenced.
Reflections on Unity and National Identity
Perhaps one of Raila’s greatest contributions was his unwavering belief in the power of unity. He understood that Kenya’s strength lay in its diversity, and that nation-building required dialogue, compromise, and an unwavering commitment to shared ideals. His speeches, actions, and policies consistently reflected a desire to bring people together across ethnic, political, and social divides. In times of tension, he called for calm; in moments of despair, he offered hope; and in the face of injustice, he led with integrity. His approach to leadership and unity remains a blueprint for future generations, highlighting the importance of compassion, dialogue, and principled action in nation-building.
A Nation’s Grief, a Nation’s Celebration
As Nairobi residents and Kenyans at large come together to mourn, there is also a celebration of life. Street corners, community halls, and homes across the country resonate with stories of Raila’s kindness, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the people. His life was not merely a narrative of politics but of human connection, of fostering relationships, and of leaving the world better than he found it. From the youngest child inspired by his speeches to the seasoned politician shaped by his mentorship, Raila’s influence transcended age, class, and political affiliation, making him a true son of the nation.
Carrying the Torch
While his physical presence is gone, the ideals he championed remain alive. For those who walked alongside him, who benefited from his mentorship, or who simply admired his courage from afar, there is a responsibility to carry forward his vision. Kenya faces ongoing challenges, but the principles Raila embodied, resilience, empathy, unity, and service, provide a roadmap for navigating the future. His life calls on each citizen to participate actively in shaping the country, to engage with courage, to act with integrity, and to uphold the values that define Kenya at its best.
Rest Well, Baba
Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga was more than a politician; he was a symbol of hope, a beacon of courage, and a tireless advocate for a better Kenya. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived and the indelible mark he left on our hearts and our nation. May the memory of Baba continue to guide Kenya toward unity, freedom, and the realization of the vision he so passionately pursued. His legacy is eternal, his impact immeasurable, and his spirit forever woven into the fabric of our nation. Rest well, Baba, and thank you for everything.
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