BONDO, Kenya – Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has declared that the journey to Canaan associated with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga remains unfinished, vowing to continue pursuing the political ideals the former opposition leader championed.
Speaking during Raila’s first death anniversary commemoration at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Kalonzo told mourners that the journey would eventually reach its destination, with Raila’s legacy continuing to inspire those who shared his aspirations.
“Ile safari ya kwenda Canaan, hiyo safari tutafika na Baba atakuwa na sisi kwa maombi,” Kalonzo said.
The remarks, which translate to “That journey to Canaan, we will complete it, and Baba will be with us in prayer,” invoked one of the most enduring slogans associated with Raila’s political campaigns.
Canaan Remains A Symbol Of Raila’s Political Vision
Raila popularised the Canaan metaphor during opposition campaigns, using the biblical Promised Land to symbolise his vision of a Kenya anchored in justice, democracy, unity and economic prosperity.
The slogan became particularly prominent during the 2017 General Election, when Raila and his allies rallied supporters around the promise of political change.
For many of his followers, Canaan came to represent the prospect of a different political and economic future, including reforms in governance and greater accountability.
Kalonzo’s remarks brought that symbolism back into focus, linking Raila’s political legacy to the continuing debate over the direction of the opposition and the future of the ideals he championed.
Raila’s Legacy Looms Over 2027 Politics
Raila died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical attention in India. His political career spanned decades of agitation for multiparty democracy, constitutional reform and changes in governance.
His first death anniversary brought together members of the Odinga family, political leaders and thousands of supporters at Migwena Cultural and Sports Grounds, where tributes, music and cultural performances marked the occasion.
The commemoration came as political leaders continued to navigate questions about the future of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the alliances that could shape the 2027 General Election.
Kalonzo’s message offered a reminder of the continuing significance of Raila’s political language among his supporters, with Canaan remaining a shorthand for the change and reforms they hoped to achieve.
One year after Raila’s death, the Wiper leader’s declaration that the journey is not over placed the former Prime Minister’s vision back at the centre of discussions about Kenya’s political future.
