Murkomen: I cherish all moments I worked with Raila
By Kiprono Keileb, October 19, 2025Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has shared a heartfelt message ahead of Raila Odinga’s burial, reflecting on the challenges of organising the national farewell and the lasting impact of Raila’s leadership on Kenya’s governance and reform agenda.
Murkomen admitted that preparations for Raila’s funeral had not been simple, describing it as a very challenging event that was not originally part of the government’s calendar.
“This has been a very changing event because it was not on the government calendar of events. We had issues at JKIA, which some people are saying was easy, but it was not easy at all. But we tried our best,” he said.
The CS praised Raila’s supporters for their cooperation, acknowledging their role in ensuring the success of the memorial and burial arrangements. “We would not have been able to do this were it not for the cooperation of Raila Odinga’s supporters. So far, the event is successful,” he said.
Murkomen described Raila as a selfless leader whose life was defined by sacrifice and commitment to the country’s progress. “We mourn a man who embodied sacrifices for Kenya,” he noted, adding that Raila had personally influenced his own path in public service.
“Raila helped me when I was new in government and put me in the devolved government. I cherish all moments I work with Raila,” he said.
The CS went on to recall their many conversations about national reforms, particularly on policing and human rights, saying Raila had been instrumental in shaping ideas on how to handle cases of police brutality.
“We had a lot of consultations with Raila, for example, on how to deal with police brutality and other issues on reforms. He was also the one insisting on compensation for the victims of protests,” Murkomen said.
As the country prepares to bid farewell to Raila Odinga, Murkomen expressed his hope that Kenya would honour Raila’s vision for justice and fairness. “I hope the country will grant the will to Raila Odinga on the compensation for the protest victims,” he concluded.