Luhya Leaders Mourn Raila Odinga in a Grand Cultural Tribute of Unity and Brotherhood

The Luhya Nation paid an emotional and powerful tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, demonstrating deep cultural respect, unity, and love. The gesture reminded Kenyans why the Luhya community consistently stood with Raila, giving him more than 70 percent of their votes since 2007.

At Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, hundreds of mourners from the Luhya region joined the Odinga family to celebrate the life of a man they called a peacemaker and a bridge between communities. More than 100 bulls were presented by delegations from different regions, each representing a message of love, unity, and continuity.

The symbolic offerings and heartfelt messages captured the shared bond between the Luhya and Luo communities—a bond that has shaped Kenya’s political and social history for decades.

Luhya Elders and Leaders Mourn Raila Odinga in a Rare Display of Unity and Tradition

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led a high-powered delegation of Luhya elders, leaders, and professionals to Opoda Farm on Saturday. Their visit came a day before Raila Odinga’s state burial and reflected a deep cultural connection that transcends politics.

The delegation presented six bulls and assorted foodstuffs to the Odinga family, a traditional act of honor and solidarity. Five of the bulls represented the five key Luhya counties—Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Trans Nzoia, and Vihiga—while the sixth bull symbolized the unity of the Mulembe Nation.

Mudavadi, who has shared both friendship and rivalry with Raila across Kenya’s political journey, described the gesture as a moment of gratitude to a man who fought for democracy and equality.

“Baba Raila Odinga was not just a Luo leader—he was a national icon and a friend to the Luhya Nation,” said Mudavadi. “This gesture is our humble way of saying thank you and farewell.”

His words drew deep emotions from the gathered mourners, many of whom described Raila as a man who respected culture and never shied from celebrating Kenya’s diversity.

Luhya Nation’s Message of Unity and Brotherhood

The Luhya leaders’ presence in Bondo represented more than condolence; it was a reaffirmation of historical friendship and shared struggles. Elders, clergy, and local leaders spoke passionately about the importance of unity between the Luhya and Luo people—two communities that have long fought side by side for justice and democracy.

One elder spoke during the ceremony, saying, “When Raila stood for freedom, he stood for all Kenyans. We mourn not just a leader but a brother. The Luhya Nation stands with the Luo people today.”

The bull offered for Luhya unity was especially symbolic. It was viewed as a call for togetherness among the Mulembe people and an encouragement to maintain political cohesion. Political observers noted that the ceremony reminded Kenyans that the Luhya community has always been at the heart of national unity.

Since 2007, the Luhya have voted overwhelmingly for Raila Odinga, seeing him as a leader who understood their struggles and respected their culture. Saturday’s tribute at Opoda Farm reaffirmed that bond and showed why the two communities share a brotherly connection built on mutual respect and shared ideals.

Cultural Respect Meets Political Legacy

The cultural ceremony was a sight of tradition, emotion, and solidarity. Each bull, song, and speech reflected Kenya’s deep-rooted respect for cultural diplomacy.

The Odinga family received the gifts with deep appreciation. Local elders from Bondo joined the Luhya delegation in performing traditional blessings for peace and unity.

Busia Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma, one of Raila’s closest political students, led a delegation of elders from Busia with 15 bulls. Dressed in African regalia, Otuoma described the gesture as a sacred duty of respect. “This is not politics; this is about honoring a man who loved his people and respected all tribes,” he said.

From Trans Nzoia, Governor George Natembeya led Iteso elders who brought 15 bulls. Natembeya, dressed in traditional warrior attire with a shield and spear, said the Luhya and Luo have always shared destiny and strength.

Former CS Eugene Wamalwa, also from Trans Nzoia, presented bulls on behalf of his family, returning the same gesture Raila showed when he mourned his late brother, former Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa.

Kakamega Governor Fernandez Barasa led elders from the Wanga clan, explaining the historical connection between the Wanga of Kakamega and the Sakwa clan of Raila Odinga. Dressed in traditional regalia, Barasa described the moment as a merging of cultural dignity and political legacy.

A Powerful Display of Cross-Community Solidarity

Other delegations, including one from Nandi led by Governor Stephen Sang, also offered 15 bulls—a rare moment of unity that transcended ethnic lines. The sight of bulls filling the homestead created an unforgettable image of how Kenya’s traditions can unite the nation in grief and love.

Political analysts later observed that the tribute from the Luhya Nation highlighted not only Raila’s influence but also the enduring friendship that has shaped Luo and Luhya communities for decades. The visit demonstrated that in times of mourning, culture and brotherhood can bridge divisions more strongly than politics ever could.

A Bond Sealed by Love, Culture, and Legacy

The gathering at Opoda Farm was more than a cultural event—it was a living portrait of national unity. The Luhya people’s generosity and emotional tribute painted a powerful picture of love, loyalty, and shared destiny.

Their gestures reminded Kenyans that Raila Odinga’s political journey was not just about power but about people—about a nation that found strength in diversity. The six bulls presented to the Odinga family will remain a symbol of how culture and respect can express what words cannot.

For many, the tribute also reaffirmed why the Luhya Nation adored Raila Odinga—his humility, courage, and unwavering belief in equality for all. In their words, songs, and gifts, the Luhyas gave Raila the highest honor possible—the honor of being one of their own.

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