The Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Odungi Randa, has joined Kenyans in mourning the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a visionary, courageous, and selfless leader who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
Speaking to journalists in Kisumu on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Randa said he was deeply shaken by the news of Raila’s passing, which he received through a phone call early that morning.
“I was shocked beyond words. I have never cried before — not even when my close friend Jaramogi Oginga Odinga passed away. But today, when I was told that the former Prime Minister had died, I broke down in tears because of the bond we shared,” he said emotionally.
Shared Struggles for Democracy
Randa recalled the difficult journey he shared with Raila during Kenya’s fight for multiparty democracy, revealing that both were detained around the same period in different prisons.
“When Raila was held at Shimo La Tewa Prison, I was at Manyani Prison. We went through a lot together and built countless memories,” he said.
He described Raila as a man of unshakable conviction — a leader who never wavered in his pursuit of justice, unity, and progress for all Kenyans.
A Call for Peaceful Mourning
The elder urged members of the Luo community and Kenyans from all walks of life to honour Raila’s memory by mourning peacefully and upholding his values of peace and respect.
“I am appealing to our young men and women to mourn Raila with peace and the dignity he deserves,” Randa said.
He added that the Luo Council of Elders would, at an appropriate time, request the national funeral committee to bring Raila’s body to Ofafa Memorial Hall in Kisumu to allow ordinary citizens to pay their last respects.
Randa also called on the four Luo Nyanza governors to unite and work closely with residents throughout the mourning period to ensure harmony and coordination.
Honouring a National Hero
In his tribute, Randa hailed Raila as a patriot and visionary whose leadership transcended politics. “He stood by his people, championed democracy, and played a key role in promoting national development and unity,” he said.
The elder’s message echoed the collective sorrow felt across Kenya and the region, as citizens continue to reflect on Raila Odinga’s towering legacy as one of the country’s most influential statesmen.
