Raila celebrated as the father of devolution across counties

This year’s 62nd Mashujaa Day celebrations across the counties honoured the late Raila Odinga as the father of devolution that has spurred development across the country.  

Governors and other leaders also hailed Raila’s contribution to the country’s democracy, human rights, and freedom, reflecting on his struggle for a just society.

At the Coast, Kwale Governor Fatma Achani said Raila pushed devolution and multiparty democracy that the region’s leadership had agitated for since the 1960s.

Achani said through devolution Kenyans decide the projects they want, unlike in the past when such decisions were made in Nairobi.

“Raila stood firm in the fight for the birth of a new constitution and the establishment of devolved governments that have brought services closer to marginalised people,” said Achani.

Kwale County Commissioner Stephen Orinde urged residents to emulate Raila’s spirit of heroism by contributing positively to their communities.

In Kilifi, Governor Gideon Mung’aro said he dedicated this year’s Mashujaa Day to celebrate Raila, describing him as the embodiment of Kenya’s enduring spirit of resilience and justice.

“Shujaa wangu, shujaa wa taifa la Kenya. Tutakusherekea leo na hata milele kama shujaa wetu (my hero, the hero of the nation of Kenya, we will celebrate you today and forever as our hero),” said Mungaro.

Kilifi County Deputy Governor Flora Chibule said Raila’s courage, determination, and sacrifices had elevated him to the ranks of Kenya’s greatest heroes.

Taita Taveta Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo celebrated, cherished, and revered Raila, describing him as a statesman who fought for the rights of the poor Kenyans.

“The devolution, multipartyism and freedom of speech we are enjoying today are because of Raila’s hard work and sacrifice. Kenyans are yet to appreciate revolutionary ideas in the Constitution, like provisions of public participation,” said Kilalo.

Mwatate MP Peter Shake said Raila stood for peace, love, unity, and reconciliation, and leaders should emulate him.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa credited Raila for his immense contribution to the country in achieving the 2010 Constitution.

“Today we celebrate our hero Raila Odinga; he was the champion for devolution and largely participated in ensuring Kenya got its 2010 constitution, besides the freedom we are enjoying today as Kenya, when he fought for multi-party democracy,” said Barasa.

In Bungoma County, Governor Kenneth Lusaka described the late Raila as one of Kenya’s towering heroes.

“He may not have become president, but his legacy is presidential. Because of his sacrifices, we stand here as governors, senators, and MCAs. He gave life to devolution and fought for a constitution that protects our rights and diversity.”

Busia County Governor Paul Otuoma termed the late Raila as the greatest hero of our time.

“We honour the late Raila for his relentless struggle for Kenya’s Second Liberation in the 1990s and for his unwavering advocacy for devolution, which has brought governance and essential services closer to the people,” he said.

In Uasin Gichu County, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi expressed gratitude to Kenyans for the support and unity demonstrated since the passing of Raila in India last week.

“Raila was a true man of God, known for reaching out to his political enemies for the sake of the people,” said Sudi.

And in Narok County, Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu described Raila as a hero whose leadership ensured Kenya remained stable, particularly during and after the general elections.

“He is a hero who fought hard for the liberation of this country and has been involved in every part of nation-building,” said Ntutu.

In West Pokot County, Governor Simon Kachapin honoured Raila calling him a true patriot and a founding father of Kenya’s devolution system.

“Thanks to devolution, power and resources have reached our counties, leading to significant achievements,” Kachapin said.

He highlighted advancements in health, education, water supply, and housing, emphasising that many dispensaries are now accessible.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya criticised senior ODM officials over claims that Raila endorsed their continued stay in the broad-based government.

“That is a lie. Some are using Raila’s name to pursue selfish interests. Let the truth be told: Raila never advocated for being used as a rubber stamp in government.”

Governor Kiarie Badilisha of Nyandarua County urged the national government to fulfil its long-overdue promises to former freedom fighters.

[Report by Renson Mnyamwezi, Benard Lusigi, Robert Menza, Peter Ochieng, James Munyeki, George Sayagie, Martin Ndiema and Irrisheel Shanzu]