Ndia Member of Parliament George Kariuki, accompanied by senior Kikuyu elders from across Central Kenya, on Wednesday visited the Odinga family at Opoda Farm in Bondo to convey condolences following the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Kariuki, who chairs the Parliamentary Committee on Roads and Transport, said the visit was a gesture of solidarity and respect for Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy, human rights, and national unity.
“We have come to offer our sincerest condolences to Mama Ida and the Odinga family. I am joined by senior elders representing all counties of the Central region,” Kariuki said during the visit.
The delegation included elders from Nyandarua, Nyeri, Murang’a, Kiambu, Laikipia, Nakuru, Nairobi, Kirinyaga, Lamu, and the Kikuyu diaspora. The visit took place during the national mourning period declared in honour of the late statesman.
Kariuki explained that while he attended Raila’s state funeral, Kikuyu customs required elders to personally visit the bereaved family to express their sympathy.
“I was present at the state funeral, but our customs require elders to visit the family of the departed. We came to offer a dignified and meaningful farewell to Raila,” he said.
In a symbolic show of respect and unity, the elders presented nine bulls to Mama Ida Odinga and her family — a traditional gesture representing mourning and national togetherness.
“The bulls are an expression of deep sympathy and solidarity. Through this, we affirm that Raila’s spirit transcends politics and his legacy belongs to all Kenyans,” Kariuki said.
He added that the visit represented cultural diplomacy and unity between communities, emphasizing Raila’s role as a national icon whose struggle shaped Kenya’s democratic freedoms.
“As elders, we believe this gesture reinforces the message that Kenya is one family. In honoring Raila Odinga, we honor the ideals that bind us together as a nation,” he concluded.
