By Anderson Ojwang
From the heart and centre of world power, and from the revered and respected Luo son, former USA President Barack Obama has spoken.
The long wait is over. The pain is over, and now it is celebration and recognition of the king — Raila Amolo Odinga, Baba, the Enigma.
From every corner, the atmosphere was pregnant with expectation. Just when would our greatest speak?
And the greatest did not disappoint — he spoke loud and clear. Passionately and with conviction, Obama described Raila as a champion of democracy.
“Raila Odinga was a true champion of democracy. A child of independence, he endured decades of struggle and sacrifice for the broader cause of freedom and self-governance in Kenya.”
As the body of Raila touched Kisumu, the capital of Nyanza, and a sea of humanity gathered from all corners of the walk, Obama spoke again:
“Time and again, I personally saw him put the interests of his country ahead of his own ambitions. Like few other leaders anywhere, he was willing to choose the path of peaceful reconciliation without compromising his core values.”
From Kisumu International Airport, tears flowed freely as the convoy snaked its way to the CBD and to Mamboleo Showground — the venue for the viewing — and once again, Obama spoke:
“Through his life, Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans but across the world. I know he will be missed. Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya.”
And with that, the Enigma makes a triumphant entry to Bondo — his ancestral home — to join his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga; his mother, Mary; and his brothers, Osewe and Odima.
