A pall of profound sorrow descended upon Kenya and the African continent on October 15, 2025, with the news of the passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
The Speaker of the Senate, Rt. Hon. Amason Jeffah Kingi, encapsulated the national mood, declaring that "A COLOSSUS HAS FALLEN".
He mourned Hon. Odinga, revered by many as "Baba," as a true son of the soil, a patriot, Pan Africanist, and a fearless defender of democracy and the rule of law, saying his death was a source of deep shock and grief for the nation.
The Senate Speaker further acknowledged Odinga's monumental political influence, stating that he was a political giant who mentored many.
Kingi himself attested to Odinga’s personal and political mentorship, calling him his political mentor and father figure, adding, "I was privileged to have passed through the Raila Odinga Academy of Politics".
Odinga’s legacy included championing multipartysim and being celebrated as the father of devolution in Kenya following his staunch support for the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
His impact on the nation's political landscape was undeniable. As the Speaker noted, "Baba shaped the politics of this country and was loved and celebrated by many".
Speaker Kingi described the loss as an event that would irrevocably alter the nation's course: "The political terrain of this country will never be the same again," the Speaker stressed adding that "the country and the continent have lost a great son, an icon".
In a poignant use of an African proverb, the Speaker reflected on the magnitude of the loss, stating, "As they say, Mti mkubwa ukianguka, wana wa ndege huyumba," loosely translated to when a big tree falls, the young birds scatter.
He expressed the collective devastation of the country saying, "Baba, we are devastated by this huge loss. Kenya will miss you, Africa will miss you and the World will miss you".
The Speaker concluded by extending his condolences "to Mama Ida and family", and offering a final prayer: "May the Good Lord Rest his soul in eternal peace".
