Sakaja: Raila was more than Baba to Kenyans-he was a father to me
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at his mausoleum in Bondo. Sakaja described Odinga as a father figure who significantly influenced his leadership style and political values.
Why it matters
The tribute highlights the enduring political and personal legacy of Raila Odinga in Kenyan society one year after his passing.
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson pays his tribute at the Raila Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya County, on October 7, 2026./HANDOUT
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has paid an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him not only as a statesman and reformer but also as a father who shaped his leadership and values.
Speaking during the unveiling of Raila’s mausoleum, Sakaja said he did not have a chance to eulogise Raila a year ago, adding that while Kenyans have spent the past year mourning his death, the time has now come to build on the legacy he left behind.
“It has been a year, exactly one year, since Baba left us. I did not have a chance to eulogise him. We have mourned for a year, but now we must build on what he left us,” Sakaja said.
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