Linus Kaikai recounts 7-minute phone call with Raila Odinga

The announcement of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, popularly known as Baba, has thrown the nation into mourning, with leaders and citizens across the country and globe paying tribute to one of Kenya’s most influential political leaders.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader died on Wednesday in the Indian city of Kochi, while undergoing treatment.

Speaking on Citizen TV after the news broke, Royal Media Services (RMS) Group Editorial Director Linus Kaikai eulogized Raila as a visionary and determined leader who shaped Kenya’s political movement.

Kaikai described Raila as a leader whose influence transcended generations, noting that his courage and relentless pursuit of democracy will leave a lasting mark on the nation’s history. 

“Kifo cha Raila Odinga ni pigo kubwa kwa taifa nzima,” Kaikai said. “Alikuwa na uwezo wa kipekee wa kuelekeza siasa za nchi hii kwa njia ya kipekee.”

Reflecting on his recent encounter with the ODM chief, Kaikai revealed that he had spoken with him just nearly a week earlier.

“I heard someone who was cheerful,” he recalled. “Hata alitania akisema ‘broad-based imekuwa kubwa,’ referring to the reunion and pact between President William Ruto and his former rival, KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, to join government.

Kaikai further reflected on Raila’s historic political journey, terming him as a leader who has been at the center of nation’s politics for over two decades.

“Raila Odinga amekuwa kiini cha siasa za Kenya kwa zaidi ya miaka ishirini. Kwa muda mrefu amekuwa simulizi kuu kwa wanahabari wa kisiasa,” he said.

“Kazi yake ya kisiasa ilianza rasmi mwaka 1996–1997 alipojaribu kugombea urais.”

He described the former premier as a champion of justice and democracy, whose political life was marked by courage, sacrifice and consistency.

The RMS Editorial Director recalled when the ODM leader was detained for over eight years for constatntly opposing the then government of the day, an experience detailed in Raila’s memoir, ‘The Flame of Freedom.’

“Alikuwa mtu wa kufanya maamuzi ya kisiasa kwa umakini mkubwa,” Kaikai noted. “Kwa muda, Raila amejengeka kama kiongozi wa upinzani aliye makini na thabiti.”

Additionally, Kaikai attributed Baba’s political journey as selfless and people-driven, noting that his collaboration with President Ruto reflected his deep commitment to national unity over personal ambition.

“Raila aliungana na Rais kwa nia ya kupunguza shinikizo lililokuwepo ndani ya ODM na kuepusha mgawanyiko wa kisiasa,” he noted.

As the nation prepares to bid Raila a final farewell, Kaikai expressed hope that he will be accorded a dignified send-off befitting his stature.

“Tunatarajia Raila apewe safari ya mwisho ya heshima,” he said.