Kindiki Urges Leaders to Uphold Raila Odinga’s Honour as Development Shines in West Pokot

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a passionate appeal for political leaders to show restraint and respect in the wake of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s passing, saying Kenya owes the veteran statesman dignity, not division.

Addressing residents of West Pokot on Wednesday during a development tour, Kindiki said it was unacceptable for anyone to ridicule a leader who devoted his life to democracy, unity and justice.

“It is shameful and un-African to speak ill of the departed,” he stated. “Even if one disagreed with him politically, it is our moral duty to respect his memory, his family and his legacy.”

The Deputy President, who co-chaired Raila’s State Funeral Committee, described the former Prime Minister as a man who “fought for a better Kenya” and whose impact transcended political lines. “We honoured him with a full state funeral, complete with military rites, because his contribution to our nation’s history is unmatched,” Kindiki said. “The best way to remember Raila Odinga is by uniting our country, not tearing it apart.”

Away from the national reflection, Kindiki turned his focus to development in West Pokot, where he launched a series of transformative projects – including the last-mile electricity connection in Longarkau village, Suam Ward.

Under the initiative, the county has been allocated Sh2 billion to light up over 10,000 homes with Kacheliba Constituency alone receiving Sh678 million to connect 4,000 households.

For many residents, the moment was deeply emotional. “I never imagined electricity would reach my home,” said an elated Emily Chelangat Koibos as the DP switched on her lights. “This is life-changing ; our children can now study comfortably at night.”

Another resident, Jennifer Lodet, said the new power lines and streetlights would help deter nighttime attacks. “Now we can walk safely – even after dark,” she said.

The DP also inspected ongoing road works, modern market constructions and affordable housing projects across the county –  part of a Sh25.3 billion development plan.

“Our unity is not political; it’s about equity,” Kindiki affirmed. “Every corner of Kenya, including West Pokot, deserves growth, peace and opportunity.”

He was flanked by Governor Simon Kachapin, MPs Titus Lotee, David Pkosing and several local leaders during the visit.