Kalonzo Musyoka led a Wiper delegation to Ida Odinga’s home. He presented ten cattle as a traditional symbol of respect and solidarity.
Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday paid a symbolic visit to the home of Mama Ida Odinga at Opoda Farm, where he presented a herd of cattle in honour of the late Raila Odinga. The visit drew hundreds of supporters who gathered along the road, chanting and ululating as the delegation arrived.
Kalonzo was accompanied by Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior and several Wiper officials. They were received warmly under a mango tree where Mama Ida sat, surrounded by family members and Azimio supporters.
Speaking during the visit, Kalonzo described his appearance as a moment of brotherhood and remembrance.
“I have come as a brother to honour a brother,” he said.
“Raila stood for justice even when it cost him dearly. His journey must continue.”
The ten cattle, decorated with ribbons, were presented as a cultural offering symbolising respect, loyalty, and continuity. Mama Ida thanked Kalonzo for “standing firm” during a difficult moment for the Odinga family and the wider political movement.
The delegation later proceeded to Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where Raila was laid to rest beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Kalonzo placed a wreath and observed a moment of silence before speaking to supporters gathered near the mausoleum.
He reminded the public of the lessons Raila championed for decades.
“Raila taught us that democracy is not handed down. We cannot abandon that fight,” he said.
Religious leaders from Christian and Muslim communities prayed for peace, unity, and healing across the country.
Kalonzo and Raila shared a long-running political partnership that shaped Kenya’s opposition politics for more than a decade. Since 2013, Kalonzo stepped aside multiple times to serve as Raila’s running mate, a decision that Ida described as evidence of a deep and “unbreakable bond.”
Even during difficult political moments, including disagreements during the 2022 campaign, the two maintained mutual respect and cooperation. Kalonzo still leads the national dialogue team, a role Raila entrusted to him.
As evening fell and the Wiper convoy prepared to depart, Mama Ida offered a brief but powerful message:
“Finish what Baba started.”
Supporters responded with chants and songs, symbolising a renewed call to carry forward Raila’s long-standing push for democracy, accountability, and national unity.
