In a season defined by reflection and gratitude, Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathews Owili has captured the soul of a people yearning for meaning beyond festivity.

As Kenya celebrates its first Christmas without Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, Dr. Owili has stepped forward not with words alone, but with quiet deeds that mirror the humility and humanity of the man fondly remembered as Baba.

At Vosh Church in Kisumu Central, the sound of carols mingled with laughter and prayer as hundreds of residents including the elderly, women and youth, gathered to receive Christmas gifts through an outreach program led by the Deputy Governor. There were no cameras, no fanfare and no political displays, just the spirit of giving in its purest form.

“This Christmas reminds us of what truly binds us. Love, peace and the spirit of togetherness,” Dr. Owili said, addressing the crowd. “Though Baba is no longer with us physically, his heart and values remain alive in the way we treat one another, in the way we give and in the way we continue to build a Kenya that works for all.”

His words resonated deeply among the gathered faithful, many of whom described him as a leader walking in the footsteps of Raila Odinga, a man who transformed sacrifice into a national creed and service into a lifelong calling.

The initiative, modest yet impactful, is part of a larger countywide outreach championed by Dr. Owili this December. Just days earlier, he led a free medical camp across Kisumu’s sub-counties, an effort that brought healthcare access to thousands of residents. The program reached expectant mothers, children and senior citizens, groups often left behind in the rush of daily governance.

Now, as the Christmas drive continues, the focus has shifted to spreading joy and comfort to families facing hardship. The initiative, run quietly from the church compound, has seen volunteers working hand in hand with local administrators to reach the most vulnerable.

Mama Risper Achieng, a widow from Manyatta, could not hide her gratitude. “We didn’t expect much this Christmas,” she said softly. “But when Dr. Owili came, he brought not just food, but hope. This is what Baba taught. To lead by serving.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Brian Onyango, a youth from Nyahera. “Dr. Owili’s gesture tells us that leadership is not about speeches,” he said. “He’s following Baba’s path of humility, compassion and quiet action. This is the kind of leadership young people need to see.”

The outreach at Vosh Church has become a symbol of continuity and a bridge between the values Raila Odinga espoused and the leaders now shaping Kisumu’s future. For Mama Atieno of Nyalenda, who attended the event with her grandchildren, the moment was deeply emotional. “We miss Baba every day,” she said. “But seeing our leaders walk in his light gives us strength. Dr. Owili reminds us that Baba’s dream for Kenya still lives.”

In many ways, Dr. Owili’s work this festive season reflects a broader transformation in Kisumu’s leadership that places people at the centre of governance. His commitment to social outreach and equitable development has earned quiet respect, particularly among grassroots communities.

“Dr. Owili has been consistent,” noted a local resident. “He doesn’t lead from behind a desk. He is present in the villages, in the markets, in the hospitals. That’s what Raila stood for, and that’s what keeps Kisumu hopeful even in mourning.”

As dusk settled over the lakeside city, the glow of small fires and the hum of evening prayers filled the air. Kisumu felt united not by politics, but by purpose and at the heart of it was a deputy governor reminding his people that compassion is the truest form of leadership.

“Let us walk into the coming year with renewed faith and purpose,” Dr. Owili said in closing. “Let us build on the foundation Baba laid. A Kenya rooted in justice, fairness and opportunity for all.”

This Christmas, as Kenya reflects on the life and legacy of Raila Odinga, Kisumu finds its comfort not in grandeur but in grace and in leaders like Dr. Mathews Owili who choose to lead through empathy, to serve without applause and to carry forward the enduring light of Baba’s legacy.

“Merry Christmas, Kenya! Merry Christmas my people!” Dr. Owili said as residents cheered.
“May the light of Baba’s legacy forever guide our steps.”