As Raila Odinga’s body arrived in Kisumu for public viewing ahead of his October 19 burial in Bondo, tributes continue to pour in from across Kenya. Among those mourning the late statesman is Pastor Ezekiel Odero of Newlife Church Center, who shared an emotional reflection on how Raila’s compassion and courage personally touched his life during one of his darkest moments.
“Raila Came to See Me When No One Else Would”
Pastor Ezekiel spoke with visible emotion as he recalled the time Raila Odinga visited him in 2023 following his arrest and implication in the Shakahola tragedy — an event that had drawn intense national scrutiny. Despite widespread criticism and controversy surrounding the church, Raila chose to stand by the embattled pastor, flying to Kilifi to visit him in person.
“He asked me why I was going through those things when I had done nothing wrong,” Pastor Ezekiel remembered. “I told him I was still trying to understand. He said it was unfair and wanted to hear the truth himself. Among everyone, Raila took his time, paid his own flight, and came to see me to understand what the church was facing.”
“We Have Lost a True Friend”
The preacher went on to describe Raila as a genuine friend who stood with him when others distanced themselves. “When we did not have friends, Raila was a true friend. He came to investigate the truth when no one wanted to come. That is why I am saying as a church we have lost a friend,” he said.
Pastor Ezekiel added that Raila’s compassion did not end with that single visit. “He continued to check on me and on the church. His death has hurt my heart so much. Even though you are gone, it will not be easy for Newlife to forget your love when we were in deep pain.”
Kenyans Moved by Pastor Ezekiel’s Tribute
The heartfelt message quickly went viral, with thousands of Kenyans expressing admiration for Raila’s empathy and humanity. Many online users praised him for being a leader who cared deeply for others, regardless of public perception or politics. “He was a great man,” one user wrote. Another added, “Baba was a true friend; we saw it with our own eyes.”
Nation in Mourning as Leaders Pay Their Respects
Raila’s death has united Kenyans across political and social divides in mourning. President William Ruto eulogized him as a “confidant and the father of Kenya’s democracy,” while former President Uhuru Kenyatta pledged to stand with the Odinga family during this difficult time. Kalonzo Musyoka also remembered Raila as a “brother and lifelong ally.”
During the state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, Raila’s daughter Winnie Odinga delivered a moving eulogy, revealing that her father had wished to be buried within 72 hours of his passing. Fighting back tears, she shared that Raila died peacefully in her arms — a moment that captured the deep love and national sorrow surrounding Kenya’s farewell to one of its most iconic sons.
