Do not kill political parties, preserve Raila's legacy - James Orengo

According to Orengo, Mr Odinga has pioneered the fight for democracy in the nation, and his legacy should be upheld by preserving the culture of multipartyism.

Speaking during Odinga's funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) on Sunday, Orengo urged political players to avoid dissolving parties despite all partnerships.

"Let us not kill political parties. They are the foundations of democracy...[despite] any arrangements we enter into. In 1963, political patriots were killed, and it took us 20 years to revive them," he said.

"Raila was a fighter for justice and democracy all his life, and sometimes I am taken aback by some people who enjoy the rights Raila has fought for, including political parties."

The political firebrand, a member of Odinga's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, further warned those mudslinging Mr. Odinga's name, urging them to respect his legacy and honour his contribution to the nation's democracy.

"There are those leading those parties and abusing Raila Odinga without knowing that, without him you would not be leading those parties," he said.

"Woe unto you. There are those who forget the legacy of Raila Odinga. Before you open your mouth to talk about Raila, remember what he has fought for, and I remind all Kenyans that his legacy will not be kept by a mere speech. It is to make sure that the gains we have made will never be lost."

Odinga died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India after collapsing during a morning walk in the company of his security guard.

He will be laid to rest in Kang'o ka Jaramogi, next to his father's mausoleum.