Kapseret Member of Parliament (MP) Oscar Sudi has paid an emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a “best friend,” “father,” and “African giant” whose death has left a profound void in the nation.
The 80-year-old opposition leader and veteran statesman passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, after collapsing while receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.
In a heartfelt statement, Sudi mourned Raila as a towering figure in Kenyan politics — a man whose courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice reshaped the nation’s democratic landscape.
“Tumepoteza baba wetu wa taifa, lakini kwangu mimi nimepoteza baba yangu,” Sudi said, his voice laden with emotion.
“Kando na siasa, alikuwa rafiki wa karibu sana.”
The Kapseret legislator reminisced about his close personal relationship with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, recalling their first meeting in 2004 through Raila’s late son, Fidel Odinga.
“Nimejua Raila kwanzia 2004, kupitia kijana yake Fidel, na alituchunga sisi wote,” he said. “Akiwa Prime Minister, nilifanya kazi nyingi huko kwake, akawa kama baba yangu mzazi. Nikipiga simu alikuwa anasema ‘yes kijana yangu,’ nami namwita ‘mzee.’”
Sudi described Raila as a man of immense wisdom and patience — a leader whose life embodied sacrifice, vision, and steadfast patriotism.
“Raila ni mtu mugwana sana, mtu ako na historia, mtu ako na mawaidha, mtu ako na patience,” Sudi added.
The MP also revealed that he had spoken to the former Prime Minister several times before his passing, reflecting fondly on their conversations.
He said Raila’s legacy will endure through the generations he inspired and the democratic ideals he fought for.
Sudi announced that residents of Uasin Gishu and the broader Rift Valley region would hold local memorial gatherings in honour of the late leader.
“Sisi kama wakaazi wa Uasin Gishu na Rift Valley tumekubaliana na Governor wetu wa Uasin Gishu kwamba wale waombolezaji huko Nairobi na Kisumu, pia sisi tutaomboleza hapa nyumbani,” Sudi stated.
“Tutaweka screen hapo kesho na kesho kutwa. Jumapili, nitaomba watu wafike hapo Sport Club saa mbili, na itaendelea hadi wakati mazishi itaisha.”
