Ndia Member of Parliament George Kariuki, accompanied by a
delegation of senior Kikuyu elders from Central Kenya, has visited the Odinga
family at Opoda Farm in Bondo to convey condolences following the death of former
Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Kariuki, who also chairs the Parliamentary Committee on
Roads and Transport, said the visit was a gesture of solidarity and respect for
Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy, human rights, and national
unity.
“We have come to offer our sincerest condolences to Mama Ida
and the Odinga family. I am joined by senior elders representing all the
counties of the Central region,” Kariuki said during the visit.
The delegation comprised representatives from Nyandarua,
Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Laikipia, Nakuru, Nairobi, Kirinyaga, Lamu, and the
Kikuyu diaspora. The visit took place during the seven-day national mourning
period declared in honour of the late statesman.
Kariuki explained that while he attended the state funeral, the elders felt it was culturally important to personally visit the bereaved family to express their condolences in accordance with Kikuyu traditions.
“I was present at the state funeral, but our customs require
elders to personally visit the family of the departed. During the funeral, time
was limited, so we planned this trip to offer a dignified and meaningful farewell
to Raila,” Kariuki said.
He described the visit as a symbol of cultural diplomacy,
intended to bridge communities and celebrate Raila’s enduring legacy as a
unifying figure in Kenya’s political and social history.
“Raila Odinga was not just a political leader; he was a
national icon who inspired millions through his courage, resilience, and
dedication to justice. His struggle shaped the democratic freedoms we all enjoy
today,” he added.
In line with Kikuyu cultural traditions, the delegation presented nine bulls to Mama Ida Odinga and her family — a symbolic gesture of mourning, unity, and respect.
“The bulls are a traditional expression of deep sympathy and
solidarity. Through this, we are saying that Raila’s spirit transcends politics
and that his legacy belongs to all Kenyans,” Kariuki said.
He emphasized that the visit underscored the shared values
of respect, unity, and national cohesion, particularly at a time when the
nation is collectively mourning a statesman.
“As elders, we believe this gesture reinforces the message
that Kenya is one family. In honouring Raila Odinga, we honour the ideals that
bind us together as a nation,” Kariuki concluded.
