POLITICAL PARTIES HONOUR RAILA ODINGA AS THE FATHER OF DEVOLUTION
By TCD TEAM
Political parties across Kenya have come together in a rare show of unity to celebrate and honor the life and legacy of the late Raila Amolo Odinga — a man hailed as the “Father of Devolution” and one of the most influential figures in the nation’s political history.
Speaking during a solemn tribute, political leader Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli delivered a powerful speech that captured the essence of Raila Odinga’s lifelong struggle for democracy, justice, and equality. Dr. Muli described Raila as “a character to be reckoned with — a character worth living and dying for.”
In his heartfelt address, Dr. Muli recounted Raila’s sacrifices during Kenya’s darkest political years, his imprisonment, and his fearless challenge against authoritarian rule. “He turned prison walls into classrooms of conviction and taught us that Kenya could be freer, fairer, and more just — if only we dared to believe,” he said.
The speech underscored Raila’s unmatched role in ushering in multiparty democracy, championing constitutional reforms, and laying the foundation for the 2010 Constitution, which birthed Kenya’s devolved system of governance. Dr. Muli noted that “every reform we cherish today bears his mark” and that “the freedom of speech, the rights of counties, and the voices of the marginalized are all fruits of his vision.”
In a joint appeal, political parties called upon the Council of Governors to honor Raila’s legacy by erecting statues in every county headquarters as a tribute to his lifelong fight for devolution. They also urged the National Assembly to immortalize him among Kenya’s greatest heroes — alongside Jomo Kenyatta and Dedan Kimathi — for his unwavering service to the nation.
Dr. Muli further appealed to President William Ruto to fully implement the NADCO Report, describing it as Raila’s final dream — “a nation reconciled, reformed, and renewed.”
“Raila Odinga’s story is the story of Kenya itself — courageous in adversity, patient in struggle, and unyielding in hope,” Dr. Muli said in closing. “May the Father of Devolution rest in peace. May his vision guide us still. May Kenya never forget the man who taught her how to dream in defiance.”
The emotional tribute ended with a standing ovation from leaders across the political divide, symbolizing a rare moment of unity in honoring a man whose life defined Kenya’s democratic journey.
