Kenya’s political leadership has come together to pay tribute to Beryl Achieng Odinga, the sister of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who is being remembered as a pioneering intellectual and a humble trailblazer.
In a message posted on social media, President William Ruto led the nation in mourning, recognizing Beryl as a “great intellectual and a pioneering woman who opened doors and lit the path for many career women.” He highlighted her distinguished career, noting her mark “as an exceptional urban planner in Zimbabwe in the 1980s, where her expertise and commitment contributed to transformative urban development.”
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who was Beryl’s law school classmate at the University of Nairobi, shared a personal tribute. He remembered her as a humble and confident student, qualities that defined her groundbreaking professional journey. Kalonzo specifically noted her historic achievement as the first Black person to serve as Town Clerk of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city.
The messages from the nation’s speakers echoed the profound sense of loss for the prominent Odinga family. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi described the passing as “a particularly painful occurrence… coming just weeks after we lost Rt Hon Raila Amolo Odinga.” National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula offered prayers for strength and peace, hoping the memory of Beryl would be a source of comfort.
The condolences were joined by a broad spectrum of leaders, including ODM’s Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and CS Ali Hassan Joho, underscoring the deep respect held for the Odinga family and the legacy of Beryl Achieng Odinga.
By James Kisoo
