A Gesture of Deep Respect

BONDO, KENYA – In a powerful display of cultural respect and political unity, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday, November 6, 2025, led a delegation to the Bondo home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, presenting the family with a gift of 100 cattle. The visit to the iconic Opoda Farm in Siaya County was a deeply symbolic act, intended to honour the long-standing alliance between Musyoka and Odinga and to reinforce the bond between the Kamba and Luo communities.

The delegation, which included members of the Wiper Democratic Movement, the Kamba Council of Elders, and various religious leaders, was received by the Odinga family, led by Mama Ida Odinga. The gesture of presenting a large herd of cattle is a significant traditional honour in Luo customs, often associated with the sacred ritual of 'Tero Buru', which is performed to pay tribute to a great leader and cleanse the home. An emotional Ida Odinga expressed her astonishment and gratitude for the unprecedented gift, stating she initially could not believe the number of cattle presented.

Political History and Future Implications

The visit carried heavy political undertones, coming weeks after Raila Odinga was laid to rest on October 19, 2025. Musyoka and Odinga's political careers have been intertwined for decades. They twice ran on a joint presidential ticket, in 2013 under the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) and in 2017 with the National Super Alliance (NASA), though they were unsuccessful in both attempts against the Jubilee Alliance duo of Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto. This long history of collaboration was a central theme of the day's speeches.

Siaya Governor James Orengo, who was present to receive the delegation, lauded the enduring strength of both the Wiper and ODM parties. In his remarks, Orengo cautioned against political mergers that could dissolve party identities, emphasizing the need for a strong, independent opposition to safeguard Kenya's democracy. Musyoka's visit is seen by political analysts as a significant move to solidify his position within the opposition and as a potential successor to Odinga's formidable political base.

A Moment of Levity

Amid the solemnity of the occasion, a moment of humour and lightheartedness emerged. Governor James Orengo was presented with a symbolic walking stick by a Kamba elder in recognition of his long career in activism and justice. Visibly delighted, Orengo broke into a playful run around the venue, chanting “Jowi! Jowi!” (meaning buffalo, a Luo exclamation of valour), which drew laughter from the attendees, including Ida Odinga. The moment provided a brief, welcome respite from the otherwise sombre mood of mourning.

National Unity and Reconciliation

Kalonzo Musyoka used the occasion to speak on national unity, recounting the dangers he and Raila faced together, including what he described as a near-assassination attempt during the 2023 anti-government cost of living protests. He also announced plans for a week-long national tribute to celebrate Raila Odinga's life and legacy across every county, pending the family's permission. The visit has been one of many high-profile condolences at the Odinga home, which has seen a steady stream of leaders from across the political spectrum paying their respects since Raila's passing. Musyoka confirmed that other opposition figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, are also expected to visit at a later date.

The event at Opoda Farm was more than a condolence visit; it was a potent symbol of enduring political alliances, cultural heritage, and the ongoing recalibration of Kenya's political future in the post-Raila era.