Matiang’i leads delegation of Gusii leaders to condole with Raila’s family

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Monday led a delegation of leaders from Kisii and Nyamira counties to condole with the family of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, following his death.

Matiang’i was accompanied by the current elected leaders and former leaders from the larger Gusii region.

“I am on my way to the Odinga family home in Bondo to offer my heartfelt condolences to Mama Ida and the family on the loss of her beloved husband and one of Kenya’s greatest sons, the former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” the former CS said ahead of their arrival.

Leaders present included former Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, former senators Prof Sam Ongeri and Chris Obure, among others.

Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, who was part of the delegation, said the leaders committed to continue fighting for functioning systems and accountable leadership in honour of the former Prime Minister.

“Throughout his life, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga exemplified the values of democracy, good governance, and grassroots development. In his honour, we remain committed to fighting for functional systems and accountable leadership in our nation,” he said.

The move is seen as a show of unity among Gusii leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections, where Matiang’i is tipped to go for the presidency.

This is one of the many delegations still visiting Raila’s Opoda farm home in Bondo, to condole with the family.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday, October 20, visited the Odinga family at Opoda Farm and Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya county — a day after the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.

He condoled with the family and paid tribute to the life and legacy of his longtime friend and compatriot.

Other delegations have since followed, including that of the council of governors, personal and family friends of the Odingas, as well as colleagues.

ODM leaders from the Nyanza region and the Kenyan branch of English Premier League club, Arsenal, also paid a visit to condole with the family.

The former Prime Minister and ODM leader died on October 15, 2025, in India, where he had gone for treatment.

He was expected to travel back to Kenya on October 17, 2025.

Raila was buried within 72 hours of his death, according to his wishes.

He was also accorded a state funeral with full military honours by President William Ruto as the country observed seven days of national mourning.