He stated that those who referred to Odinga as “Mganga” or “Mchawi” (Swahili terms for witch doctor) had their own reasons for doing so.
BONDO, November 2025 –The Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, has dismissed claims that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga believed in witchcraft. Musyoka also clarified that Odinga is a very staunch Christian who believes in God and not in earthly matters.
He stated that those who referred to Odinga as “Mganga” or “Mchawi” (Swahili terms for witch doctor) had their own reasons for doing so.
Musyoka recalled an incident when ten live bullets were fired at Odinga’s car, emphasising that the former premier could have lost his life in 2023 had it not been for the armoured vehicle he was in.
He stressed that it was by the grace of God, not witchcraft, that Odinga survived that attempt on his life.
It’s worth noting that President William Ruto, while serving as deputy president, frequently referred to the late Odinga as a “mganga” during political rallies and campaigns. These comments sparked public debate and prompted Odinga to publicly affirm his Christian faith.
“I am a devout Christian and do not practice witchcraft or rely on dark forces for my political career. He mentioned that while he does not object to the term, he wanted to clarify his religious beliefs,” Odinga had stated.
The use of the term “mganga” was part of a series of verbal attacks between the two political figures and their allies, with both sides trading barbs and accusations during the intense political climate leading up to the 2022 general elections.
Odinga used to attend St. Peter’s ACK Nyamira-Bondo during holidays, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Kisumu, where he would make personal contributions toward the church’s development.
Speaking after laying a wreath at Odinga’s graveside at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo on Thursday 6th November, Musyoka expressed that he had known Odinga as a staunch Christian who feared God. The Wiper leader also conveyed his admiration for Mama Ida Odinga, the late Odinga’s spouse, and her fortitude following his passing.
Musyoka, who led a large delegation of leaders from Ukambani counties, described the late Odinga as a true brother and a Pan-Africanist who believed in democratic values.
Earlier in Kisumu during a presser, Musyoka mentioned that the United Opposition member and immediate former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, would also visit Bondo at a later date.
Later, at Opoda Farm, within the late Odinga’s homestead, Kitui Senator Enock Wambua expressed a firm stance against those who do not respect the legacy of the fallen hero and father of modern democracy in Kenya.
Wambua, visibly annoyed, stated that: “Odinga was a leader who transcended boundaries and mentored many individuals.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr also eulogised Odinga as a leader who fought for democracy in the country. On her part, Mama Ida praised Dr Musyoka for being a steadfast leader.
