Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has dedicated this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, eulogizing him as a true hero whose lifelong struggle for a just Kenya defined his legacy.

In a statement on his X account, Kalonzo joined many Kenyans in hailing his friend’s unwavering commitment to the nation, painting a picture of a leader unbowed by decades of political persecution and electoral disappointments.

“Today, I join many Kenyans in dedicating this Mashujaa Day to my brother and dear friend who has taken his final bow, our Second Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, Rt Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” Kalonzo stated.

The Wiper leader recalled the immense personal costs Raila paid for his political beliefs, highlighting Raila’s resilience in the face of adversity during the most challenging periods in his political career.

“Years of detention did not stop you. The torture chambers did not faze you. The agony of bungled and stolen elections did not crush you,” he said.

Kalonzo emphasized that Raila’s life’s work was a singular pursuit of a national ideal, stressing the need to honour Raila as a national hero.

“Throughout your life, you dedicated yourself – mind, body and soul to the pursuit of a fair and just Kenya, where all, irrespective of their titles and ethnicity, would be accorded dignity and treated equally,” Kalonzo said.

Addressing the late Prime Minister by his popular nickname ‘Agwambo’, Kalonzo praised his companion for demonstrating heroism through action during their political journey.

“Agwambo, you exhibited true heroism not only in words but also in your remarkable resolve to persevere, hope, and believe,” he said.

Furthermore, Kalonzo assured the departed ODM leader that his sacrifices would remain etched in the nation’s memory, directly addressing him as ‘Baba’, another of Raila’s well-known nicknames.

“Your sacrifices, Baba, will not be forgotten. You are and will always remain my hero, Kenya’s Shujaa,” Kalonzo affirmed.

Kalonzo also extended his Mashujaa Day wishes, envisioning Raila in a place of honour, “From your perch at the mountaintop, I wish you and all Kenyans of goodwill a Happy Mashujaa Day.”

Kalonzo’s heartfelt dedication comes as the nation continues to observe the 7-day national mourning period announced by President William Ruto after Raila had passed on.

Ahead of today’s Mashujaa Day celebration at the newly constructed Ithookwe stadium in Kitui, the late Raila Odinga is expected to take centre stage at the national observance, refocusing the day’s theme of celebrating heroes on the life and sacrifices of one of Kenya’s most prominent and consequential political figures.

Yesterday at his burial in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, President Ruto led other foreign and national leaders in a send-off ceremony, with most speakers hailing Raila as a statesman who will forever be remembered globally, especially for his fight for democracy and putting his country before personal interests, especially in the post-election eras.