BONDO, Kenya — Embakasi South MP Musili Mawathe left guests at Ida Odinga’s Opoda Farm in Bondo visibly impressed after delivering an eloquent speech in fluent Dholuo during a public function on Thursday, stunning attendees and drawing admiration across social media.
Mawathe, who was among a delegation of leaders attending an event hosted by Ida Odinga, the widow of Azimio leader Raila Odinga, switched effortlessly from Kiswahili and English to Dholuo — a move that caught even seasoned Luo speakers by surprise.
His mastery of the language earned him applause and laughter from the crowd, with many hailing it as a rare show of cultural respect and unity.
“Wan gi mor ahinya ka ineno ja Embakasi mondo owach Dholuo ka owadu. Ok en gimoro marach!” one attendee exclaimed, meaning, “We are truly delighted to see an Embakasi MP speak Dholuo like one of us. It is not a small thing!”
The event, attended by several dignitaries and political allies of the Odinga family, was part of an ongoing community engagement at Opoda Farm — Raila Odinga’s rural home that often hosts national and regional leaders.
Mawathe’s speech, sources said, focused on the importance of national cohesion, cultural appreciation, and unity beyond political lines.
Observers noted that Mawathe’s linguistic display was symbolic in a region where language often underpins political identity. By speaking Dholuo, the MP — who hails from a different ethnic background — appeared to bridge cultural divides, earning him warm praise from both locals and political peers.
A video of the speech quickly made rounds on social media, with users lauding the legislator’s respect for Luo culture. “This is the Kenya we want — leaders who connect with the people beyond tribe,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The moment also underscored growing calls for cross-cultural integration in national politics, especially as Kenya continues to navigate post-election reconciliation efforts.
