“Kingpins aren’t established through votes; it is the ‘essence of Luo spirits’ that bestows such recognition upon individuals. Patience is crucial as we observe the potential candidates,” they say
KISUMU, Kenya, October 21 – A cross-section of Kisumu ODM leaders and supporters has called upon the leadership of Kisumu County, led by Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o, to promptly initiate a lawful process for erecting a statue in the Kondele roundabout to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The leaders assert that Raila was a courageous figure and a national icon who positively impacted the country beyond his community. They proposed that the process could be expedited through a supplementary budget from the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
Epicentre of Democracy
They emphasised that the choice of Kondele is significant, as it has long been a centre for multiparty democracy, human rights, and justice struggles in Kenya.
During the Mashujaa Day celebrations at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground on October 20th, Market-Milimani Ward MCA Hon Seth Kanga and Kondele ward aspirant Obungu Owich highlighted Raila’s personal sacrifices in advocating for just systems in the nation.
“We need the statue as quickly as possible. Every time we pass by Kondele, we will see Baba. The statue will serve as a site for national healing, where individuals can come to remember him and find solace,” they remarked, noting that they would also organise key events at the site.
His counterpart Obungu Owich pointed to the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, which was greatly influenced by Raila’s relentless efforts. He noted that many, including women and youth, have become voices of reason, benefiting from the freedoms of speech and movement. Raila fought for the inclusion of these groups, creating platforms for young people to engage in politics.
“The young progressive leaders like us were defended by the late Odinga, allowing us to exercise our political freedom without interference through various political parties he established (NDP, LDP, ODM).”
As President of the Bunge la Wananchi Caucus, Obungu urged ODM supporters to remain peaceful, calm, and united, reflecting Raila’s wishes.
“We will not accept any leader who brings divisive politics or seeks to sow discord within our community. We should engage in dialogue about each other, rather than against each other.”
The duo also lauded President William Ruto for granting Raila a state burial and posthumously awarding him the Chief of the Golden Heart (CGH), acknowledging the demonstration that politics can transcend personal enmities when shared interests align.
“We thank all Kisumu residents and party supporters for turning out in large numbers to pay their last respects to the late doyen of opposition politics peacefully and orderly.”
Similar requests for the erection of Raila’s statue were made by Suna West Constituency aspirant Dave Odhiambo, who expressed his intentions to approach Migori Governor Dr Ochilo Ayacko’s administration with the proposal.
“We will advocate for the statue to be placed at the Posta area to commemorate his immense contributions. Today on Mashujaa Day, we honour him as the Father of Democracy and devolution across all 47 counties,” he appealed.
Luo Kingpin
Regarding the sensitive issue of Luo kingpinship, Hon. Kanga, also known as Adui Nyang, and Owich expressed that campaigning for this title should not be prioritised while the nation is still mourning Raila’s passing.
“Kingpins aren’t established through votes; it is the ‘essence of Luo spirits’ that bestows such recognition upon individuals. Patience is crucial as we observe the potential candidates.”
They emphasised that Raila did not impose his recognition as kingpin following the death of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga; instead, “the Luo spirits identified him, which brought peace to our community.”
The leaders concluded that the individual who will rightfully lead the community forward must earn the blessings of Luo elders, women, and the entire community.
The statue should erected in Nairobi first.Raila fought for Kenya … died fighting. Kenyatta, ,Mboya, Kimathi are significant personalities. Let us remember Raila as a. National not tribal leader. Let us encourage Nationalism. His statue should be better placed at Kamkunji Gardens.