Kikuyu Council of Elders eulogises ODM leader Raila as selfless statesman

The Kikuyu Council of Elders (KCE) has  eulogized former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga as a towering nationalist, Pan-Africanist, and a selfless statesman whose legacy will live on for generations.

In a statement released by the council’s national chairman, Wachira Kiago, the council expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the long-serving opposition leader, saying his death was not only a loss to the Luo community but to the entire nation.

“The Kikuyu Council of Elders fraternity expresses deep sadness on the demise of Kenya’s long-time nationalist and Pan-Africanist, Raila Odinga. On behalf of the Kikuyu community, we convey our heartfelt condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, the family, and the Luo community for this monumental loss,” said Kiago.

The council hailed Raila as a leader who consistently put the interests of the nation above personal ambition, noting that his willingness to reach out to rivals reflected rare statesmanship.

“Raila was not just a leader but a friend. His record of stretching a hand of friendship to four presidential rivals is a vivid display of unequalled tolerance. His tireless fight for democracy, human rights and devolution made him suffer physical and emotional injuries, yet he never wavered,” read part of the statement.

Kiago added that Odinga’s death had robbed Kenya of a “unifier and a beacon of hope,” and urged citizens to accord him a dignified send-off befitting his immense contribution to the nation.

“He deserves a dignified send-off, and KCE appeals to all Kenyans to give him this honour,” the leader stated.

The elders also commended the William Ruto-led government for its handling of the situation following Raila’s demise, saying the President’s leadership had helped calm the nation during a period of grief.

KCE Secretary-General James Nene echoed the chairman’s sentiments, noting that Raila played a vital role in bridging the historical rift between the Kikuyu and Luo communities.

“There was a time when relations between the Kikuyu and Luo communities were strained, but through Raila’s guidance and meetings facilitated by elders, we managed to restore unity. His passing is a big blow to our cohesion efforts,” said Nene.

He further divulged that Odinga had been instrumental in fostering inter-community dialogue through the Mapatano Elders Association, a platform bringing together elders from various ethnic groups to promote peace and understanding.

“We had come together as elders of different communities under the Mapatano Elders Association to foster unity and cohesion. Raila supported this mission wholeheartedly, and we are determined to continue his vision,” Mr. Nene added.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national unity and discouraging political incitement that often fuels ethnic divisions during election seasons.

“Our unity as community elders is to end conflicts sparked by political rivalries. We must ensure that political competition never again divides our people,” he emphasized.

As Kenyans continue to mourn the passing of the veteran politician, the Kikuyu Council of Elders called for continued solidarity among all communities, saying that true honour to Raila Odinga’s legacy lies in upholding peace, justice, and unity values he championed throughout his lifetime.