By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 25 October 2025 - The Council of Governors (C0G) has pledged to continue advancing the democratic and devolution ideals championed by the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as a pivotal figure in Kenya’s political transformation and a tireless advocate for equity and justice.
Led by CoG Chairperson and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, the governors visited Odinga’s gravesite at his father’s home in Kang’o Kajaramogi, Bondo, to pay tribute to his legacy.
They were accompanied by Governors James Orengo (Siaya), Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), Muthomi Njuki (Tharaka Nithi), Simon Kachapin (West Pokot), Simba Arati (Kisii), and Wilber Ottichilo (Vihiga).
Speaking during the visit, Abdullahi said their presence was not merely ceremonial but a reaffirmation of Odinga’s enduring influence on Kenya’s democratic journey.
Our visit here is a testament to the respect and gratitude we hold for Raila Odinga. He fought for the marginalized when even the oppressed doubted that change was possible,” he said.
Governor Abdullahi noted that Odinga’s struggle for multiparty democracy and equitable resource distribution helped integrate historically neglected regions such as Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Turkana, and Lamu into the national framework.
“He ensured that those once left behind by centralized governance could finally take part in shaping their destiny through devolution,” he added.
The Council's chair emphasized that the governors have a duty to protect and strengthen the devolution system, which Odinga strongly supported during the constitutional reforms that led to the 2010 Constitution.
“The fight for devolution is far from over. We owe it to him to make sure devolution succeeds and works for every Kenyan,” Governor Abdullahi said.
His sentiments were echoed by other governors, who credited Odinga with shaping Kenya’s modern political landscape and empowering counties to manage their own resources and development agendas.
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Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o described Odinga as “the architect of devolution,” while Siaya Governor James Orengo said his democratic vision must continue guiding the country’s leadership.
At Odinga’s Opoda Farm residence, the governors also met his widow, Mama Ida Odinga, and son Raila Odinga Jr., who thanked them for their solidarity and tribute.
Mama Ida expressed gratitude to the CoG and Kenyans across the country who continue to honour her late husband’s memory and ideals.
Odinga, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, is remembered for his role in pushing for multiparty democracy, constitutional reform, and regional equity.
His political career, spanning over four decades, was defined by his call for good governance, transparency, and the decentralization of power.
The governors’ visit and their renewed pledge signal a collective commitment to safeguard the principles Odinga stood for.
As Kenya continues to navigate challenges of devolution — including funding gaps, corruption, and uneven development — county leaders say they are determined to uphold Odinga’s vision of a fairer, more inclusive nation.
In honouring him, the Council of Governors reaffirmed that Odinga’s influence goes beyond politics.
His legacy, they said, lies in the democratic space and devolved governance system that continue to shape Kenya’s future.
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