A delegation of civil society leaders visited the home of Raila Odinga Junior on Tuesday to honour his late father, former Prime Minister Raila “Baba” Odinga, who passed away on October 15.
The visit was described by Raila Jr. as a reminder of his father’s enduring influence on Kenya’s democratic and civic institutions.
In a statement posted on X, Raila Junior said the gathering allowed participants to “reflect on the journey, the hurdles overcome, and the leadership that has guided our path.”
He thanked all attendees for coming to “stand with us” during this period of remembrance.
Raila senior was a central figure in Kenya’s pro-democracy movement, advocating for political reforms and civic engagement over several decades.
His leadership extended beyond political office, with sustained support for civil society organisations working on human rights, governance, and social justice.
The civil society delegation included well-known activists and leaders of organisations who have collaborated with Raila in initiatives aimed at strengthening citizen participation and government accountability.
Their visit is seen as a recognition of Baba’s contributions in shaping Kenya’s governance landscape.
Following his death, the Kenyan government declared a seven-day national mourning period. Raila Odinga was accorded a state funeral attended by dignitaries, political leaders, and citizens from across the country, marking the end of an era in Kenyan politics.
Raila Junior has emphasised continuity in his father’s vision, noting that gatherings such as Tuesday’s reinforce the values that guided Baba’s life—democracy, civic participation, and national development.
The meeting concluded with expressions of solidarity and a shared commitment to preserving the principles that Raila championed, signalling that his legacy within Kenya’s civil society and political sphere remains influential.
