Ex-Raila aide Jakakimba pens heartfelt tribute after viewing his body

Silas Jakakimba, the long-time aide to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has penned an emotional tribute to his former boss and mentor, describing him as a “dependable father” and “the first among equals” in the fight for a freer and more equal Africa.

Jakakimba, who served as Raila’s personal aide for nearly two decades, shared the heartfelt message on Friday after viewing the late opposition leader’s body.

“Jakom, his afternoon I viewed your Body. So peaceful,” he began, referring to Raila by his widely known nickname, Jakom, a Luo word meaning ‘Chairman.’

Reflecting on his close working relationship with the late ODM leader, Jakakimba said their bond grew beyond professional service into deep personal trust and mentorship that shaped his own leadership journey.

“That the commitment in the years-old service to and under you, and the undeniably very close nexus that blossomed to both comradeship of trust and a near-son relationship, have seen me grow into what I am today in the leadership space, can neither be gainsaid nor overstressed,” he wrote.

He recalled how the opportunity to serve under Raila for close to 18 years gave him a front-row seat to the former premier’s vision, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of justice and equality.

“From the opportunity you entrusted to me as your Personal Aide for close to 18 years, I confess I know no other human being on the African continent, who came close to you as the First Among Equals on the quest for a freer and more equal continent, outside Nelson Mandela,” Jakakimba noted.

Paying homage to Raila’s enduring political and moral legacy, Jakakimba added that the former Prime Minister’s life’s work will continue to inspire the struggle for a better Kenya.

“In the historical quest for a better Kenyan nation back home, your legacy marked with personal sacrifices, powers on. Thank you for being a dependable Father, Mentor - and find all the Rest in The Lord as you prepare for the Final Journey to Dala,” he concluded, invoking the Luo phrase “to Dala,” meaning “home.”

Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, died earlier this week, triggering a wave of grief and tributes from across the country and beyond.

He will be laid to rest on Sunday at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County.