Nyali parliamentary aspirant and journalist-turned-politician Elkana Jacob has paid glowing tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing him as the father of hope and democracy. Elkana urged Kenyans to carry forward Raila’s legacy of unity, transparency, and people-centered leadership.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct’ 17, 2025- Nyali parliamentary aspirant and journalist-turned-politician Elkana Jacob has joined thousands of Kenyans in mourning the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “the father of hope, a symbol of resilience, and the soul of Kenya’s democratic struggle.”
In a statement issued on Friday, Elkana said Raila’s death had left a deep void in the nation, calling on Kenyans to honour his legacy through unity, integrity, and people-centered leadership.
“The enigma Raila Odinga is gone, and we must honor him at all costs. I’m proud to be among the many young people from Mombasa, especially Nyali, who came to see him off,” he said.
Elkana, a seasoned journalist, security expert, and criminologist, recalled Raila as “a true model of democracy, particularly for the fourth estate that we are privileged to enjoy today.”
He noted that Raila’s humility and sense of humour left lasting memories during his time as a journalist with The Star Newspaper, where he once covered the ODM leader.
“I remember when I worked at The Star, Baba would often call me ‘Nyadundo’—short and wise in Luo—and laugh, asking if I was happy with the pictures because, as he’d say, ‘Tomorrow it will be fire on the front page!’” Elkana said with nostalgia.
Elkana pledged to carry forward Raila’s vision through his own political mission in Nyali, vowing to promote transparency, empowerment, and service to humanity.
“As someone who has worked in the media and now aspires to serve in leadership, I will champion what Baba stood for—integrity, empowerment, and the upliftment of humanity,” he affirmed.
He urged Kenyan youth to emulate Raila’s courage and resilience, saying the best tribute to the late leader is to protect democracy and remain steadfast in pursuit of justice.
“Raila’s spirit of resilience must live on in every corner of this nation,” Elkana said.
Raila Odinga died earlier this week while undergoing treatment in India, triggering a week of national mourning led by President William Ruto. His body has since been viewed by thousands of mourners across Nairobi and is expected to be flown to Kisumu and later to Bondo, Siaya County, for burial on Sunday 19.
