Former Interior Cabinet Secretary and presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i has urged Nyanza residents to remain united in honour of the late Raila Odinga’s legacy. Speaking during a church event in Homa Bay County on Tuesday, October 21, Matiang’i praised Raila as a father figure who brought people together beyond tribe and region.
He described Odinga’s ability to foster inclusivity and mutual respect as a guiding principle that should continue defining Nyanza’s political and social unity. Matiang’i said honouring Raila’s memory begins with sustaining the peace he championed.
Remembering Raila’s Legacy Through Unity
Matiang’i reminded Nyanza leaders that Raila Odinga was not just a politician but a unifier who believed in teamwork, dialogue, and equality. He noted that Odinga valued every region, treating people from Kisii, Nyamira, Kisumu, and Homa Bay as one family.
“Raila had a way of keeping people together. He believed in consulting everyone and ensuring that all voices were heard. We must remain united because that is what he wanted,” Matiang’i said.
The former CS emphasized that Odinga’s leadership went beyond political power, highlighting his humility and willingness to listen to differing opinions. He described Raila as a mentor whose vision for a cohesive Nyanza region was driven by fairness and shared progress.
Raila’s Influence Beyond Luo Nyanza
Matiang’i recalled his close association with Odinga, especially during and after the famous 2018 handshake between Raila and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He revealed that Raila often offered counsel even after leaving government, describing those consultations as moments of wisdom and mentorship.
“I had the privilege of working closely with Raila after the handshake. Even when we were out of government, we still consulted him on several issues. His guidance helped shape decisions that affected millions,” Matiang’i said.
He also reminded the crowd that Odinga’s political reach extended deeply into Kisii and Nyamira. Raila maintained close ties with local leaders from the two counties, reflecting his vision of a united western bloc. Matiang’i added that preserving these inter-county relationships was the best tribute to the late ODM leader.
ODM’s Future and the Call for Peace
Matiang’i’s remarks came at a time when the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party is reportedly facing internal friction. The disagreements stem from differing opinions about ODM’s political future and its relationship with President William Ruto’s administration.
The uncertainty has raised questions about whether the party can survive the post-Raila era without losing its identity or unity. Matiang’i, however, dismissed fears of collapse, saying unity among supporters will determine ODM’s longevity more than leadership changes.
During Odinga’s funeral, President Ruto also pledged to protect the party from what he termed attempts to hijack it for divisive politics. “In respect of our legend, I will not allow individuals to take over ODM and engage in opposition politics. I will ensure the party remains united,” Ruto said.
Matiang’i echoed this sentiment, calling on Nyanza residents to focus on collaboration rather than competition. He said the late Raila valued peace and would not have wanted internal divisions to undermine his lifelong dream of a cohesive and prosperous Kenya.
A Call to Uphold Raila’s Vision
The former CS concluded by urging the congregation to respect and support local leaders as a continuation of Raila’s principles. He stated that progress in the region would only come through teamwork and mutual respect among leaders and citizens alike.
“Let us not betray what Raila stood for. He fought for democracy, justice, and equality. The least we can do is stay united and carry forward his dream,” Matiang’i said.
He further assured the people of his commitment to work with all leaders from the region to strengthen development and harmony, adding that he remains ready to contribute to the political and social stability Raila worked tirelessly to build.
In a moving tone, Matiang’i reminded Nyanza that legacies are not honoured through words but through actions that reflect the values of the person being remembered. For him, unity remains the most powerful tribute to Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy.
