‘We Nearly Got Killed in 2023’; Kalonzo Recalls Narrow Assassination Escape, Honors Raila’s Lasting Legacy

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka led a delegation from Eastern Kenya to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo. They came to pay tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The atmosphere was solemn. Musyoka reflected on shared political battles and personal danger.

In a moving eulogy, Musyoka spoke of a close brush with death during the 2023 anti-government protests. He said both he and Odinga were targeted in Embakasi South. “We have been in the trenches with my brother. In 2023, when Kenyans said the cost of living was unbearable, Raila and I nearly got killed. There were 10 bullet attempts on him. Without an armoured vehicle, we would have buried him that year,” he revealed.

Musyoka condemned insults against Odinga and his family. “We are burying a man of God who laid his life for this country. He was not a mganga or a mchawi. No one should ever use those names for the Odinga family again,” he said. He added that people from all communities, even critics, will continue to honor Odinga.

He praised Odinga’s lasting influence, especially on young Kenyans. “Raila will be more powerful in death than he was alive. He inspired Gen Zs. Our nation’s history cannot be written without him,” Musyoka stated. Religious and political leaders joined in honoring Odinga’s legacy.

Siaya Governor James Orengo welcomed the delegation. He praised Musyoka’s long partnership with Odinga over multiple election cycles. “In 2013, 2017, and 2022, you worked closely with Raila. We should never forget that legacy,” Orengo said.

Raila’s family, led by Raila Odinga Junior and his wife Ida, greeted Musyoka warmly. Raila Jr said, “My father was a Pan-Africanist and national leader. He welcomed everyone, which is why we honor all visitors.” Ida added, “Kalonzo has been Baba’s friend for many years. He mourns with us because of his deep friendship.”