During the state funeral of Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium, Prof. David Kodia — Bishop of the Anglican, Bondo Diocese — delivered a poignant sermon that transcended traditional religious observance, weaving together scripture, political values, and a strong challenge to the nation’s leadership.
Prof. Kodia began by capturing the spirit of the late leader, first stating that God wished to speak to the nation, and then imitating Raila Odinga’s signature rallying call.
“If he were to be here today addressing you he would start by saying ‘Aaaayaaah!'”
He then adopted the call himself: “Aaaayaaa ayaaaaaa and let it be well.”
He the started his sermon and the core of the sermon, titled “The power of the word,” drew inspiration from the charge given by Paul to Timothy, to preach the word, correct, rebuke, and encourage. Prof. Kodia asserted that this was the power entrusted to leaders for the betterment of the world.
He argued that the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga had used this power effectively to proclaim a new dawn, the power to bring about a new freedom where Kenyans could “be able to whatever we feel to say.” and to proclaim liberation moving mankind from a “state of fear to the state of boldness.”
Prof. Kodia used the pulpit to deliver a fierce critique of the current culture of political handouts and corruption, contrasting it sharply with Raila Odinga’s methods.
“Baba Raila Amolo Odinga never used the power of his wallet as a convincing tool to others but he used the power of persuasion.”
He noted the “bad manners” of politicians who practice the culture of handouts, stating that woe those who drive big vehicles, as they are now seen only in terms of money they can give.
He issued a stern warning to any present who might be guilty of financial misconduct,
“If there is anyone here… be you a governor, be you an MCA, be you whoever it is who has looted this country, you stand a chance of being condemned.”
The Professor publicly thanked President William Ruto for granting the late leader a State Funeral, emphatically stating,
“No one deserved it more than Raila Amolo Odinga.”
He concluded by challenging the congregation to continue the former Prime Minister’s unfinished work. In Raila Odinga, the nation sees the strains of justice, peace, and reconciliation that are “yet to be archived.”
The sermon, which moved many mourners, ended with a blessing, “May the Lord bless you all, may the Lord lift you up as we bid farewell to Baba in the name of God the father, the son, and the Holy spirit. Amen.”
