NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 11 – Leaders from ten political parties have pledged to uphold the legacy of the late Raila Odinga by championing democracy, national unity and issue-based politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The leaders made the commitment on Tuesday during a visit to Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, at her Nairobi home, where they paid tribute to the former opposition chief and his contribution to Kenya’s democratic struggle.
The delegation was led by National Liberal Party (NLP) leader Augustus Muli and Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) chairman Evans Misati.
Muli said the focus should now shift from mourning Raila to celebrating his contribution to the country’s democratic journey.
“Baba died last year. The time for mourning is over. Today is for celebration,” Muli said.
The delegation comprised representatives from the United Democratic Party (UDP), United Progressive Alliance (UPA), United People’s Forum (UPF), Party of Peace and Order Kenya (PPOK), Kenya Patriotic Party (KPP), National Unity Party of Equality and Unity (NUPEU), Liberal Party of Kenya (LPK), Alliance for Real Change Kenya (ARCK), People’s Green Party (PGP) and NLP.
An emotional moment came when Kenya Patriotic Party leader Dick Kamau recalled Mama Ida’s role during the second liberation struggle, describing her as a crucial link between detained and exiled pro-democracy activists and Raila.
“You were the bridge that kept the struggle alive. That sacrifice must never be forgotten,” Kamau said.
Speaking on behalf of the parties, Misati said they would promote a political agenda centred on jobs, the cost of living, healthcare, education, agriculture and youth empowerment.
He said the parties would reject ethnic mobilisation, incitement and political violence as the country heads towards the 2027 polls.
“Kenyans deserve solutions, not insults. We reject tribal politics, incitement and violence as the country heads to the 2027 elections,” Misati said.
In a joint statement, the parties said Raila’s legacy should be honoured through the defence of democracy, stronger institutions and adherence to constitutionalism rather than merely invoking his name during political campaigns.
The leaders also pledged to promote peaceful and issue-based political competition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The visit concluded with prayers for the Odinga family, with the leaders reaffirming their commitment to carrying forward what they described as Raila’s ideals of democratic governance and national unity.
