The Council of Governors (COG) has called on the national government to fully implement devolution as a way of honouring the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the 27th Kenya Clinical Officers Association meeting in Naivasha on October 15, 2025, COG Deputy Chairman and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga described Raila as a true champion of devolution and democracy. He said the ODM leader’s passing was not only a loss to his family but also to all Kenyans who believed in constitutional reforms and the empowerment of counties.
“Today marks the darkest day for the country, and it’s not only Raila’s family that is mourning, but all those who stood for full enactment of devolution,” Kahiga said.
The governor praised Raila for his steadfast role in the push for the 2010 Constitution, which ushered in the devolved system of governance. He added that the opposition leader’s commitment to equitable distribution of resources and stronger county governments transformed Kenya’s political and economic landscape.
“Raila was among those who ensured that we got a new constitution and at one time was even arrested for standing up for what was right,” Kahiga noted.
Kahiga also urged Kenyans to maintain peace during this period of national mourning, calling on supporters of the late leader to remember his legacy through unity and continued advocacy for justice and equality.
Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) national chairman Peterson Wachira echoed these sentiments, praising Raila’s contributions to labour rights and unionism.
“Raila was instrumental in ensuring that workers were represented through unions, and his name shall forever be remembered as we strive for a better health system,” Wachira said.
The COG emphasized that the best way to celebrate Raila’s memory is through the government’s renewed commitment to fully fund and implement devolution — a dream he tirelessly fought to realize.
