The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers, (KUPPET) Kisumu chapter has sent condolence message to the family of former prime minister Raila Odinga.
The branch Executive Secretary Zablon Awange in a statement said it is with deep sorrow that they as a union have received the news of the passing of Odinga.
Awange said the late Odinga was the father of democracy in Kenya and the architect of second liberation. He said the former PM was member of Parliament for Lang’ata Constituency, where served with great commitment.
“His service as Kenya’s prime minister (2008- 2013) further reflected his deep belief in development and visionary leadership,” he said.
Awange extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, Luo nation and the people of Kenya.
“May the Almighty grant them strength and comfort, and may the soul of Rt. Hon. RAILA ODINGA rest in eternal peace,” he concluded.
Meanwhile Businesses were closed down indefinitely in Kisumu after news of the death of Odinga quickly spread through the town. Business people in Kisumu CBD said that they had voluntarily closed all business activities to mourn Raila. Wailing supporters led by hundreds of boda boda riders flooded the streets of Kisumu using motorcycles and whistles.
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The residents, describing Raila as hero, called on the government to suspend all state activities in his honour. They said they felt very sad, nervous, and shaken, because Raila is a leader who has fought for many lives and the rights of Kenyans.
“The mood is not good, and so we have closed our businesses to mourn our hero. No one has been forced to close their businesses, but they are sad because we have lost someone we really admired,” another resident said.
Hundreds of people carrying twigs and singing dirges poured along the Oginga Odinga street and other adjacent ones to mourn the fallen hero. Shops were hurriedly closed while motor vehicles made U turns in panic. The late Odinga died in India where he had been taken for treatment over an undisclosed ailment.
Kisumu residents spoke in low tones as they pondered what will happen in the absence of Odinga from the political arena given his grass roots connection with the people.
By Fredrick Odiero
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