A delegation of Kalenjin leaders and elders on Saturday visited the Bondo home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, offering condolences to his family and celebrating his legacy as a unifying national figure.
Led by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, who chairs the Kalenjin MPs caucus, the delegation presented 80 bulls to the Odinga family. The gesture, deeply rooted in Kalenjin culture, symbolizes each year of Raila’s 80-year life and serves as a mark of profound respect.
“We are going there with a lot of sadness because we have lost a great leader who helped unite the country,” said Melly. “He worked well with Presidents Moi, Kibaki, Uhuru, and most recently with President William Ruto. His life was defined by service, resilience, and unity.”
Melly explained that the ceremony also aimed to strengthen ties between the Kalenjin and Luo communities, describing the act as one symbolizing brotherhood, peace, and enduring friendship.
“We are taking the condolences of the Kalenjin community of about six million people,” he added. “The bulls will serve as a timeless gesture of goodwill and unity between our communities.”
Raila Odinga, who passed away last Wednesday in India, had been receiving treatment before his demise. His death has sparked widespread mourning and tributes from leaders across the political divide, underlining his towering influence in Kenya’s political history.
President William Ruto declared a seven-day national mourning period in Raila’s honour. The former Prime Minister is scheduled to be laid to rest on Sunday.
Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur, who accompanied the delegation, emphasized that the visit was a demonstration of continued unity. “Our visit reaffirms our shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous nation,” he said.
The visit not only conveyed condolences but also reaffirmed the enduring friendship and unity Raila fostered among Kenya’s diverse communities.
