The Right Reverend Prof. David Kodia delivered a scathing rebuke to corrupt politicians during the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, declaring that anyone who has looted the country is condemned.
Bishop Kodia’s words energized the thousands gathered, challenging leaders who exploit power for personal gain and highlighting the legacy of a leader who served Kenya selflessly.
In a powerful sermon that drew applause from mourners, Bishop Kodia did not mince his words as he called out leaders at all levels who have enriched themselves at the expense of the public.
“When we’re proclaiming the Word, we should not be fearful. Word proclaimed must have the power to transform, to make us renewed in our strength in the liberation of our country from those who are looting everything from us, from the country level to everywhere,” he declared, prompting applause and cheers.
He warned any official who has misused public office, saying, “If there’s anyone here, at whatever level, be a governor, MCA, who has looted this country, you know you stand the chance to be condemned.”
The bishop’s remarks contrasted Raila’s legacy of integrity with the current culture of corruption that has plagued Kenya’s political landscape.
Bishop Kodia used the occasion to highlight the values that Raila embodied throughout his political career, urging Kenyans to reflect on the qualities that made him a beloved leader.
“So, when we are talking about a person of the stature of Raila Amollo Odinga, we are seeing in him those strains of justice which are yet to be won. We are seeing in him those strains of peace which are yet to be achieved. We are seeing in him the strains of reconciliation, which we have yet to see. We are seeing Kenyanhood in him as being at the centre of everything else,” he said.
In another pointed criticism, Bishop Kodia lamented the degradation of political culture in Kenya, contrasting it with Raila’s approach to leadership.
“The question is how do we apply the power to proclaim what God has given us for the good of the nation, of humanity. Baba is one such politician who never used the power of money to intimidate people. Today, we have bad manners among our politicians. They have taught our people the culture of handouts that whatever you want, you must part with money and woe unto those who drive big vehicles, you’re in big trouble,” he said.
Raila was praised for his reliance on persuasion rather than money.
“Baba never used the power of his wallet as a convincing tool to others, but he used the power of persuasion. He used the power of the word. Let’s allow ourselves to be used by God so that the power He gave us is the power that is correcting, reconciling and rebuking what is evil.”
Bishop Kodia concluded his sermon with a blessing, urging Kenyans to honor Raila’s memory by embracing the values he stood for.
“How many can fit in the shoes of Raila Odinga today? How many? May God bless you all. May God lift you up as we bid farewell to Baba. In the name of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” he said.
The crowd responded with a standing ovation, waving Kenyan flags in tribute to the late leader.
His remarks came as President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, Cabinet Secretaries, governors, and other political leaders attended the State Funeral.
The State Funeral, held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium, drew thousands of mourners and dignitaries worldwide. The Odinga family, led by Mama Ida Odinga and Dr. Oburu Oginga, was alongside Raila’s children to witness the nation’s tribute to their departed patriarch.
Foreign dignitaries, including Ethiopian President Taye Atsé Selassie, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, paid their respects to the fallen leader, highlighting his stature as a Pan-African figure.
Leaders from the united opposition, governors from across the country, and members of the diplomatic corps attended the ceremony, reflecting the broad reach of Raila’s political career and personal relationships.
