- Lang'ata MP Jalang'o shared a heartfelt poem and a portrait of the late Raila Odinga to mark one year since his passing
- The MP described October 15 as 'Black Wednesday' and reflected on the lasting grief felt by Kenyans who admired Baba
- Kenyans flooded Jalang'o's post with their own tributes, with many insisting Raila-likes will never be seen again in Kenya
Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, better known as Jalang'o, marked the first anniversary of Raila Odinga's death with a deeply personal tribute on Wednesday, October 15, sharing a portrait of the late politician alongside a lit candle and an original poem.
Source: Facebook
The comic-turned-politician used the occasion to put into words what many Kenyans have struggled to express in the year since Raila's sudden passing.
How did Jalang'o honour Raila?
His post captured the raw emotion that still lingers among the former prime minister's supporters.
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In the poem, Jalang'o described the day of Raila's death as one etched permanently in national memory.
"Black Wednesday it was, a day we'll never forget, a death nobody wanted to believe, a pain we can't forget," he wrote.
He went on to reflect on the grief that has endured well beyond the initial shock, noting that Raila's presence still feels very much alive among those who admired him.
"One year later, the tears still fall, and the name of Baba still echoes through us all," he added.
The tribute concluded with a celebration of the veteran politician's legacy and a farewell message:
"Forever our Baba, forever in our hearts, lala salama, Raila. Your spirit never departs."
Raila passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while receiving medical treatment in Kerala, India. His death brought to a close one of the most consequential political careers in Kenyan history, spanning decades of activism, imprisonment and relentless advocacy for multiparty democracy and constitutional change.
One year on, family members, political figures and ordinary Kenyans have continued to pay their respects through tributes and commemorative events.
See the post below:
Netizens weigh in
Jalang'o's post drew widespread reaction from Kenyans eager to share their own reflections on Baba's life and impact.
Paul Ochanyo wrote:
"Baba's celebration is about his legacy of 80 years he lived here on earth and not about two years achievements under the broadbased arrangement."
Opiyo Shem kept it brief but powerful:
"Legend never dies.. When they die they are born again."
Shekem Ogejo offered a blunt verdict
: "Unpopular opinion: We will NEVER get another Raila Odinga in Kenya. Not Ruto, not Gachagua, not Kalonzo. NEVER. He was the last true Enigma of Kenyan politics."
Hon ActuaryvinnyMutai added:
"Today, we mark exactly a year since your untimely departure. Yet even in your absence, your incontestable pro-democracy credentials, Pan-African ideals, and belief in the oneness of Kenya remain aflame, inspiring us and the generations to come. Continue resting in peace Baba Raila Amolo Odinga."
Inside the Raila Odinga mausoleum
TUKO.co.ke also highlighted facts about Raila’s mausoleum at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, including the portraits, plaques and titles chosen to reflect how Kenyans remember him.
A walkthrough video of the memorial has prompted emotional reactions, with viewers calling for it to include more of the people, causes and moments that shaped Raila’s public life.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
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