Reverend Joseph Otieno has urged Kenyans to honour the memory of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga by promoting peace and respect within their homes. Speaking during Raila’s burial service in Bondo on Sunday, October 19, 2025, the reverend encouraged citizens to live by the values Raila championed — justice, care, and equality.
Describing Raila as a man who valued harmony both in politics and personal relationships, Reverend Otieno appealed to the public to express their respect for the fallen leader through peaceful living. “When you go home, honour Raila by not beating your wife or your husband,” he said.
The reverend noted that Raila was a strong advocate against gender-based violence and believed in empowering both men and women equally. He emphasized that one of the best ways to preserve Raila’s legacy would be to ensure the election of more women into leadership roles. “I want to plead that the country elect the right number of women to all electoral positions. Because that will please the late Prime Minister,” he added.
Reverend Otieno praised Raila’s lifelong commitment to justice and equality, describing him as a leader who always listened to the voices of ordinary Kenyans. “Raila was a politician who always listened to the ground. Let us always listen to the people of Kenya, and let justice flow like a river,” he remarked.
He also shared a personal story about Raila’s caring nature, recalling how the late leader once visited his home with his brother Oburu Odinga. “After my wife had given them tea and uji, they were heading to a rally… he was caring,” he said.
The reverend concluded by urging Kenyans to emulate Raila’s positive values. “Pick something positive to remember him,” he said, calling for a nation built on peace, justice, and unity.
