Unity as Odinga's Enduring Legacy

Speaking in Homa Bay County on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i emphasised that maintaining unity within the Nyanza region is the most fitting tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Matiang'i described Odinga as a unifying 'father figure' who embraced all communities across Nyanza, including Kisii, Nyamira, Homa Bay, and Kisumu, treating them as his own children.

Matiang'i, who is reportedly eyeing the presidency in 2027, urged the region to uphold the spirit of togetherness that Odinga championed throughout his political career. He highlighted Odinga's consultative approach and his ability to quietly resolve issues, fostering cohesion even amidst political tensions.

Historical Context and Odinga's Influence

Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, after suffering a cardiac arrest in India, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for decades. His burial took place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, attended by numerous national and international dignitaries, including President William Ruto.

Odinga's influence extended beyond his Luo heritage, with Matiang'i recalling Odinga's deep ties and numerous friendships in Kisii and Nyamira counties, where he would often spend nights at friends' homes.

Governance and Policy Implications

Matiang'i underscored Odinga's role as a champion of devolution and functional governance systems. He urged the public to support all elected leaders, from governors to Members of County Assemblies (MCAs), to ensure they deliver on their mandates in honour of Odinga's vision for a decentralised and effective government.

The call for unity comes at a time when there are reports of emerging divisions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, which Odinga led. These divisions are reportedly fueled by divergent political opinions and competing visions for the region's future.

Stakeholder Testimonies and Data

Matiang'i recounted his personal experience of working closely with Odinga, particularly after the 2018 handshake with former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He noted that even after leaving government, he continued to consult Odinga on various matters, underscoring Odinga's enduring influence as a mediator and advisor.

Evidence/Data Box

• Date of Odinga's Passing: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic treatment facility in India.
• Date of Burial: Sunday, October 19, 2025
• Location of Burial: Kang'o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County.
• Source: Nairobi Leo, Daily Post, The Star (October 21, 2025)

Risks and Implications

The potential for disunity within the Nyanza region and the ODM party could weaken the strong political base that Odinga meticulously built over his five presidential campaigns. This fragmentation could have significant implications for the region's political leverage and future leadership dynamics.

Unanswered Questions and Controversies

While Matiang'i's message strongly advocates for unity, the specific mechanisms for achieving and sustaining this unity in the absence of Odinga's direct leadership remain a key question. The ongoing internal discussions within the ODM party regarding its future direction and potential presidential candidates for 2027 also present uncertainties.

What to Watch

Observers will be keenly watching how Nyanza leaders respond to Matiang'i's call for unity and whether the various factions within the ODM party can reconcile their differences to present a cohesive front. The emergence of new leadership within the region and the party will be a critical development in the coming months.