Matiang’i Calls for Unity in Nyanza to Honour Raila Odinga’s Legacy

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i has urged leaders and residents in Nyanza to remain united in honour of Raila Odinga’s legacy following the former prime minister’s death.

Speaking during a church service in Homa Bay County over the weekend, Matiang’i stressed the need for political and social cohesion across the region, citing Raila's lifelong efforts to bring people together during times of division. Raila died on 15 October 2025 while receiving treatment in India and was laid to rest on 19 October at his home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo.

His funeral was attended by national and international dignitaries, including President William Ruto, reflecting his wide influence on Kenya’s political landscape.
Matiang’i described Raila as a calm but effective mediator who often resolved disputes discreetly. He recalled how Raila played a crucial consultative role after the 2018 handshake with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, even without holding a government position.

“Raila had a way of putting people together,” Matiang’i said. “He never spoke about things before he managed them quietly.”

His appeal comes amid growing divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the party Raila led for decades. Some members are pushing for cooperation with the current administration, while others want the party to field its own presidential candidate in the 2027 general election.

The split threatens to weaken the strong political base Raila built over five presidential campaigns, particularly in Nyanza. Matiang’i also highlighted Raila's close ties with communities outside his Luo heritage, noting his frequent visits to Kisii and Nyamira counties.

“He took all of us as his children,” Matiang’i said, calling on leaders from Kisii, Nyamira, Homa Bay, Kisumu and other Nyanza counties to uphold this spirit of inclusivity.

He further urged the public to support elected officials at every level of government, including governors, senators, MPs, women representatives and MCAs. According to Matiang’i, the most meaningful way to honour Raila's memory is to safeguard and strengthen the democratic institutions and devolved systems he championed.