Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi to Lead Eldoret Memorials in Honour of Raila Odinga

 

Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi has announced plans for a series of memorial gatherings in Eldoret to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India.

Describing Raila as a “father,” “mentor,” and “African giant,” Sudi paid an emotional tribute to the opposition leader, recalling a personal bond that spanned over two decades.

“Tumepoteza baba wetu wa taifa, lakini kwangu mimi nimepoteza baba yangu,” Sudi said during his statement. “Kando na siasa, alikuwa rafiki wa karibu sana.”

Sudi revealed that his connection with Raila began in 2004 through the late Fidel Odinga, Raila’s son. He described the former Prime Minister as a man of patience, wisdom, and deep commitment to justice and democracy.

“Raila ni mtu mugwana sana, mtu ako na historia, mtu ako na mawaidha, mtu ako na patience,” he added, reflecting on their long-standing friendship.

To honour Raila’s legacy, Sudi announced that residents of Uasin Gishu and the broader Rift Valley would hold local memorials in parallel with national mourning events in Nairobi and Kisumu.

“Tutaweka screen hapo kesho na kesho kutwa,” said Sudi, referring to planned public viewings.

“Jumapili, nitaomba watu wafike hapo Sport Club saa mbili, na itaendelea hadi wakati mazishi itaisha.”

The main memorial event in Eldoret is scheduled for Sunday at the Eldoret Sports Club, starting at 8:00 a.m. The gatherings will include live broadcasts of national events and tributes from local leaders and residents.

Raila Odinga, a key figure in Kenya’s political history and democracy movement, died at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His death has sparked widespread mourning across the country and beyond.