In the heart of Kenya’s Rift Valley, as the nation grapples with the profound loss of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, leaders from Baringo County have emerged as poignant voices of gratitude, celebrating his unparalleled role in bridging political divides and championing national reconciliation.
During the vibrant Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kerkwony Stadium in Eldama Ravine, these leaders painted a vivid portrait of Raila as a selfless statesman whose final acts of leadership continue to resonate, particularly in uniting KANU Chairman Gideon Moi with President William Ruto—a move that has fortified political stability in the region.
Raila Odinga, the iconic Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader whose sudden passing in India on October 15, 2025, sent shockwaves across Kenya, was remembered not just for his decades-long fight for democracy but for his behind-the-scenes diplomacy that mended fractured alliances.
Eldama Ravine Member of Parliament (MP) Musa Sirma, who spearheaded the tributes, underscored Raila’s instrumental involvement in reconciling Gideon Moi and President Ruto, a reconciliation that culminated in Gideon Moi’s integration into the broad-based government.
This strategic unity, Sirma emphasized, was a testament to Raila’s vision of an inclusive Kenya, where personal ambitions yield to national progress.
“Raila played a crucial role in uniting Gideon Moi with President Ruto, and we shall remember him for that selfless act of leadership,” Sirma declared amid the cheers of gathered crowds.
Delving into the details, the MP revealed how Raila orchestrated discreet meetings—first in the opulent settings of Dubai and later at the hallowed halls of State House in Nairobi.
These negotiations reached their zenith with a landmark announcement at Kabarak, the historic home of the Moi family, symbolizing a new era of cooperation in the Rift Valley.
As a direct outcome, Gideon Moi gracefully withdrew from the contentious senatorial race, opting instead to contribute his expertise within the expansive framework of the broad-based government.
This decision, Sirma noted, has not only quelled potential electoral tensions but also paved the way for collaborative governance, ensuring that the Rift Valley’s diverse voices are amplified in national decision-making.
Echoing Sirma’s sentiments, Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi delivered an impassioned eulogy, highlighting Raila’s multifaceted legacy.
Cheboi praised the late leader for his astute recognition of local talent, specifically nominating Harold Kipchumba to fill the vacancy left by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi in the National Assembly.
This nomination, Cheboi argued, was a beacon of Raila’s commitment to empowering underrepresented regions like Baringo, fostering a sense of belonging in the national fabric.
Beyond political appointments, Governor Cheboi lauded Raila’s unwavering advocacy for devolution—a cornerstone of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution that decentralizes power and resources to counties.
Just two weeks before his untimely death, Raila had fervently urged the National Assembly and the National Treasury to prioritize the timely and full disbursement of county funds, a plea that resonated deeply with devolved units struggling against bureaucratic delays.
“We cherish his leadership and are deeply grateful for his unwavering commitment to devolution,” Cheboi stated, his voice laced with emotion.
This stance, he added, ensured that counties like Baringo could sustain critical services in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, embodying Raila’s lifelong mantra of equity and grassroots empowerment.
The event took a somber turn as Nominated MP Harold Kipchumba led a poignant moment of silence, honoring the fallen icon whose personal touch extended right up to his final days.
Kipchumba shared a heartfelt anecdote: merely two days before Raila’s passing, the ODM leader had reached out via phone, offering words of encouragement to represent Baringo’s interests robustly within the party and the broad-based government.
This revelation humanized Raila, portraying him not as a distant political titan but as a mentor whose guidance lingered even in his last moments.
Seizing the platform, Kipchumba extended his commendations to parents and guardians of children living with disabilities, acknowledging their resilience and calling for greater societal support.
In a pointed cautionary note, he addressed the upcoming by-elections scheduled for November 27, 2025, urging vigilance against any maneuvers to allow United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Vincent Chemitei to run unopposed.
“Raila was a strong believer in democracy and fair competition. The people of Baringo deserve the right to elect a leader of their choice,” Kipchumba affirmed, invoking Raila’s democratic ethos to rally for transparent electoral processes.
As Kenya navigates this period of mourning, the tributes from Baringo underscore Raila Odinga’s enduring impact on national unity, devolution, and inclusive politics.
His efforts in reconciling key figures like Gideon Moi and President Ruto have left an indelible mark on the Rift Valley’s political landscape, promoting stability amid uncertainty.
Leaders and citizens alike are now called to honor his legacy by embracing the principles of reconciliation and fairness he so ardently championed.
In Baringo and beyond, Raila’s spirit lives on, inspiring a united Kenya poised for a brighter future.
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