Kalonzo: Raila may be gone, but his spirit of liberation will remain

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, emphasizing that his dedication to democracy, justice, and the rule of law will continue to inspire Kenya's opposition. Addressing the opposition leaders in Bondo, Siaya County, on September 27, 2026, Kalonzo and his colleagues had journeyed to the region in anticipation of the first anniversary of Raila's passing.

Their purpose, Kalonzo revealed, was not solely to mourn but to gain strength from the legacy Raila had left behind. "Raila may be gone, but the spirit of liberation, his commitment to the rule of law and justice in our country will live on," Kalonzo asserted.

Kalonzo's remarks echoed a call from a church leader for the establishment of a functional official opposition in Kenya. He acknowledged the opposition's recognition of this demand and expressed gratitude. Kalonzo also recognized the opposition's shortcomings and appealed to religious leaders to pray for politicians who were still advocating for national issues. He acknowledged that despite their failures, the opposition continues to play a vital role in democratic governance.

Kalonzo recalled Raila's criticism of Parliament, highlighting the former Prime Minister's assertion that the institution had been compromised. He challenged the notion that political leadership is confined to elected positions, asserting that influential leaders can emerge from outside Parliament. Kalonzo cited former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa and former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi as examples of such leaders.

He argued that true leadership is tested during challenging times, not merely in times of prosperity. "The leadership and greatness of a leader is not determined by the amount of silence they keep, or what they say when everything is rosy and beautiful, but when the nation is at a standstill, and they stand for truth and justice," Kalonzo emphasized.

He described Raila as a leader who championed truth and justice, and reminded the audience of his own contribution to Kenya's political reforms, particularly the 2010 Constitution, as a landmark achievement in the country's pursuit of democratic change.