North Rift Governors Join Kalenjin Elders in Delivering 80 Cows to Odinga Family in Honour of Late Premier
“ As Kalenjin leaders, we honor him not only as a national figure but as a statesman who believed in reconciliation and inclusivity.”
North Rift governors Benjamin Cheboi (Baringo), Wisley Rotich (Elgeyo Marakwet), and Stephen Sang (Nandi) join Kalenjin elders and MPs at the Odinga home in Bondo to pay their final respects
Governors from the North Rift led by Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang, Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, and Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi have joined a caucus of Members of Parliament from the Kalenjin nation in delivering 80 cows donated by Kalenjin elders and leaders to the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The symbolic gesture, initiated by Kalenjin elders, underscores a message of unity and respect for the late Odinga’s immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy and national cohesion. The cows will be officially presented to the Odinga family by the Chair of the Kalenjin Caucus, Hon. Julius Melly, who will be accompanied by a host of Rift Valley leaders traveling to the Odinga home in Bondo to pay their final respects.
Governor Stephen Sang described the gesture as a “cultural expression of brotherhood and peace,” saying, “The late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga played a huge role in shaping Kenya’s political landscape. As Kalenjin leaders, we honor him not only as a national figure but as a statesman who believed in reconciliation and inclusivity.”
Governor Rotich echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the unity between communities must continue beyond Raila’s passing. “This is a moment to strengthen our national bonds. The late Odinga believed in the Kenya of all tribes, and it is our duty to uphold that vision,” he said.
Baringo Governor Cheboi noted that the act symbolized respect and peace between communities. “The donation of cows represents peace and continuity of friendship between our people,” he added.
Hon. Julius Melly, who led the delegation to Bondo, stated that the elders’ decision to offer 80 cows was a reflection of the Kalenjin community’s deep respect for the late leader’s legacy. “This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ for the leadership, courage, and selflessness that Raila Odinga displayed throughout his life,” Melly remarked.
Meanwhile, the public viewing of the body of the late former Prime Minister is ongoing today at the Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu. Thousands of mourners have turned up to pay their last respects ahead of the burial ceremony scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday, at his Bondo home in Siaya County.
Security has been heightened in Kisumu and Bondo as leaders and citizens from across the nation continue to converge to celebrate the life and legacy of the veteran opposition leader and statesman.
About Author
