Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Kaluma has affirmed ODM’s commitment to maintain unity and continuity in honour of the late Raila Odinga, while acknowledging President William Ruto’s respect toward the former opposition leader.

Speaking during the memorial event in Migori County on November 6, 2025, Kaluma said the gathering was a moment to honour the life and enduring legacy of Raila.

He emphasised that Raila’s vision for democracy, justice, and equality continues to guide the nation, urging supporters to remain united and committed to the values he championed. Kaluma noted that the strongest tribute to Raila is not in mourning alone, but in carrying forward his mission of defending the ordinary Kenyan and safeguarding the country’s democratic gains.

“We want to tell President Ruto, you stood with Baba Raila when he lived, and in death, you honoured him when he was alive and when he died, and we, as people, shall not forget you,” he said.

His statement highlighted a moment of political convergence during the national mourning period.

Commitment to party unity

Kaluma addressed concerns regarding the stability of ODM following Odinga’s passing on October 15, 2025, in India. He assured supporters that the party remains intact.

“There are people who think that because Baba has rested, the ODM Party will be divided and collapse. We are here to tell you that we will remain united in honour of Raila,” he said.

He added that Odinga left a clear political direction for ODM and its role in the Broad-Based Government. “Baba didn’t just leave us in the Broad-Based Government, but he also left a political will to be followed and implemented by his people to the letter,” Kaluma stated.

As preparations continue for the November 27, 2025, by-elections, Kaluma expressed confidence in ODM’s performance within the shared government framework, noting that ODM and UDA are positioned to retain influence in the upcoming polls.

State funeral

Following the death of Raila, President Ruto announced his passing and initiated a series of state-led activities leading to his final send-off.

The President declared a period of national mourning, the lowering of the national flag to half-mast, and a state funeral with full military honours.

In accordance with military protocol, such honours are reserved for presidents and select national figures of exceptional stature, placing Odinga alongside the late Michael Kijana Wamalwa and Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai.

His casket was draped in the national flag and transported in a military gun carriage to Parliament Buildings, where the President led Kenyans and dignitaries in public viewing.

At Nyayo Stadium, uniformed KDF troops mounted a ceremonial guard of honour as thousands gathered to bid farewell to the former premier.

The Kenya Defence Forces accorded him the ceremonial treatment equivalent to that of a five-star general, the highest recognition of service and contribution to the nation. President Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, senior government officials, and family members were among those who paid their respects, marking a solemn farewell to a political figure whose public life and influence spanned more than six decades.