NAIROBI, Kenya – Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on the first anniversary of his death, describing him as a personal mentor whose political legacy must be protected as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) prepares for the 2027 General Election.
In a tribute titled A Year On, Wanga said Raila’s absence remained deeply felt by those who worked alongside him, adding that his ideals, courage and belief in a better Kenya continued to inspire millions.
She described Raila as the “father of the Second Liberation”, saying his death a year ago had plunged Kenya into mourning, with Africa and the wider world sharing in the loss.
“A year later, the pain of BABA’s absence remains deeply felt,” Wanga said, recalling how those close to him still wished he could return to offer guidance and counsel.
Wanga Credits Raila For Her Political Journey
Wanga said her relationship with Raila was deeply personal and that much of her political progress was made possible by his trust and support.
She credited the former ODM leader with giving her opportunities, guiding her political journey and opening doors that helped shape her career.
“My relationship with BABA was deeply personal. Whatever I have achieved in politics, I owe in large measure to his belief in me,” she said.
The governor expressed gratitude to Raila and those whose advice helped him place confidence in her abilities.
Her tribute highlighted the influence Raila had on leaders within ODM, as well as the responsibility they now carry to sustain the political movement he helped build.
Wanga Urges ODM To Protect Unity Ahead Of 2027
Wanga said Raila had, in his final years, spoken passionately about the future of ODM beyond his lifetime, envisioning a party that would outlive its founder and grow stronger nationally.
According to the governor, Raila wanted the party to embrace diversity while remaining committed to democracy, justice, equity and inclusion.
She said he had invested heavily in building a formidable political movement capable of winning national power and transforming the lives of Kenyans.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, Wanga urged party leaders to place unity and the movement’s long-term interests above personal ambitions.
“Since his departure, we have carried the responsibility of guiding the party forward, conscious that our task is bigger than any individual or personal ambition,” she said.
She added that ODM’s responsibility was to protect its unity, expand its national reach, uphold its founding ideals and prepare to compete effectively in the next election.
Raila’s Coalition Vision Remains Central To Tribute
Wanga also recalled Raila’s commitment to building political partnerships and cooperation in the national interest.
She said he believed in a stable and prosperous Kenya where grievances could be addressed, justice upheld and every citizen treated with dignity and fairness.
According to Wanga, Raila remained hopeful in his final days that ODM would lead a coalition capable of forming the next government.
She said preserving his legacy required more than commemorating his life, arguing that party leaders must continue pursuing the vision he championed throughout his political career.
“The most fitting tribute we can offer him is to keep his dream alive and build the just, democratic, inclusive and prosperous Kenya he fought for throughout his life,” Wanga said.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, leaving behind a decades-long political legacy centred on multiparty democracy, constitutional reform and social justice.
As Kenya marks the first anniversary of his death, Wanga’s message places renewed emphasis on ODM’s future, its internal cohesion and the challenge of translating Raila’s ideals into a political programme ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Rest in eternal peace, BABA. Your legacy lives on, and your dream remains our responsibility,” she said.
