Kalonzo expresses disappointment on sidelining opposition in Raila’s memorial
By Kiprono Keileb, October 17, 2025At Nyayo Stadium, where thousands gathered to bid farewell to Raila Odinga, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka described the moment as both emotional and revealing. Speaking to the press after the memorial service on Friday, October 17, 2025, Kalonzo reflected on the shared struggles he and Raila faced in their political journey and the dignity that marked his final send-off.
“We shared the great pains of stolen elections with Raila Odinga. We were so down that day for the sake of our people. Our brother has taken a final bow, but I am so happy nobody called Raila a mganga today, nobody called him mtu ya Kitendawili, nobody called him mchawi,” Kalonzo said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Disappointment
He expressed disappointment that the official opposition was not given a chance to speak during the ceremony, saying, “It’s unfortunate they did not recognise the official opposition to say something. You can see how Kindiki announced that we were around there. Nobody heard, but we must give Raila a dignified send-off,” Kalonzo said
Kalonzo also echoed the sentiments of the clergy, who during the ceremony called out corruption and looting in the country. “I stood when Bishop talked about looting because that is the conversation people want to know,” he said, linking the message of the day to the broader call for accountability and justice.
Echoing that tone, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua described the farewell as one that carried both grief and reflection. In a statement shared on her X account on Friday, October 17, 2025, she said the day mirrored two ceremonies. “I felt we were witnessing two ceremonies in one, the genuine prayers and tributes from the podium, and the people’s vibrant chants of mourning & honour,” she stated
Karua highlighted the priest’s bold message against corruption as a moment that stood apart. “The priest’s condemnation of the looting that betrays our nation’s future stood apart from the crowd’s passionate tribute,” she noted.
For her, the day was not just about saying goodbye but also a reminder of unfinished work. “For me, this is our charge: to carry both the prayer and the people’s hope for a better and just Kenya. The fight continues! Aluta Continua!” she wrote.
As Raila Odinga’s chapter closes, the voices of his allies, calling for justice, integrity, and unity, remind the nation of the values he stood for.