After missing the opportunity to address mourners during the national farewell ceremony for Raila Odinga at Nyayo Stadium, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka spent his Friday, October 17, 2025, afternoon with the Odinga family, in what many saw as a heartfelt and deeply personal gesture.

Kalonzo, who stood beside Raila through some of Kenya’s most defining political battles, said he visited the family to console them.

“I visited the home of my brother and friend, Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, this afternoon to personally offer my condolences to Mama Ida and the Odinga family,” he stated

In his message, Kalonzo described Raila as a tower of strength, a leader whose courage and sacrifice shaped the nation’s democratic journey. He noted that even in the face of deep grief, Mama Ida continues to display remarkable composure and resilience.

“As I sat with the family, I saw this clearly. Over the past few days, she has shouldered the weight of the pain of our Nation, our continent, and even the world with immense grace,” he stated

The Wiper leader spoke of the Odinga family’s generosity to the country, saying they gave Kenya more than anyone could have imagined.

“The Odingas shared their leader with us so selflessly, so much so that Raila was the heartbeat of a generation that believed in a just and united Kenya,” he said.

Kalonzo, who served alongside Raila in opposition politics for years, said it was now time for Kenyans to stand with the Odingas as they come to terms with the loss of their patriarch.

“The Odingas now deserve all our collective support as they face their new reality without a man they first called Baba,” he said.

He extended his sympathy and personal support to Ida Odinga, promising to stand by her during this painful period. “Mama Ida, you can count on my support and my family’s prayers at this most difficult time,” Kalonzo said, adding that Raila’s life was of purpose “As you mourn, find solace in knowing that Baba’s life was one of purpose and sacrifice,” Kalonzo added

In his closing message, Kalonzo urged the nation not to forget Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy. “May God give the Odinga family strength, and may Kenya never forget the legacy of a man who gave everything for his country and his people,” he said.

At a time when emotions remain high, Kalonzo’s message offered a reminder of shared loss and a call for unity around a family that gave so much to Kenya.

Disappointment

Earlier, Kalonzo had faulted the government for failing to properly recognise the opposition leaders.

“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 stated.