Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko was forced to conclude the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s tribute to Dalmas Otieno after his brother Oburu Odinga was unable to finish reading the condolence note he had been tasked to deliver to the mourners on his behalf.

This occurred during the burial of the former minister in Rongo Constituency, Migori, on Thursday, October 2, 2025. Oburu, who was passing the condolence message on behalf of Raila, who had missed the event, could not read the words properly.

He attributed it to an eye problem, forcing him to stop midway and call Ayacko to proceed with reading the tribute note to completion.

Raila’s tribute to the family began with him expressing his utmost grief and sorrow to the family following the loss of his former political ally, stating that the deceased was a passionate defender of what he believed in.

“I admired his belief in business as a means for job and wealth creation and shared his vision for government, especially in the public service, as a potential enabler for both the public and private sectors. That is why under the Grand Coalition Government we appointed him to the Ministry of Public Service,” Ayacko read.

“This community and the country have lost much in his death. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of grief. It is my hope that you will draw some comfort and strength from the many good deeds that he leaves behind. God grant you peace,” he added.

Uhuru’s condolence message

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also tasked former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero to deliver his condolence message to the family.

According to Uhuru’s message, Dalmas Otieno will be remembered not only for his service to the nation but also as a mentor and source of wisdom whose calm demeanour and vision earned him respect across political divides.

His passing, the statement added, was a loss not only to his family and the Rongo constituency he represented but also to the country at large.

“Kenya has indeed lost a great son, a man who gave the best of his talents to the nation and whose legacy will remain. H in the annals of history, his passing is not only a loss to his family but also to the community and the country at large.”