Shock and Grief in Raila Odinga’s Hometown
Bondo, Siaya County — the birthplace and political home of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga — descended into mourning today following reports of his death in India.
Residents flooded the streets shouting “Jowi! Jowi!”, a traditional Luo war and mourning chant, as grief swept across the lakeside town. The air was thick with sorrow, disbelief, and a sense of national loss as thousands tried to come to terms with the news.
An Emotional Outpouring in Bondo
By mid-morning, crowds had gathered along the dusty roads leading to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family’s ancestral home. Elderly women broke into tears, clutching their shawls and calling Raila’s name, while men formed groups discussing the reports circulating on radio and social media.
At the Bondo market, traders abandoned their stalls. Motorbikes came to a halt as riders removed their helmets in respect. Some residents were seen waving ODM flags and portraits of Raila, chanting:
“Baba! Jowi! Jowi!”
The chant — deeply rooted in Luo culture — signifies both pain and reverence. It is used to honor a fallen hero or warrior, symbolizing strength and collective mourning.
Cultural Significance of the “Jowi” Chant
In Luo tradition, Jowi is not just a cry of grief; it’s a call of unity and remembrance. It’s an emotional declaration that a great one has fallen.
When shouted in unison, it binds the community in shared mourning — a collective acknowledgment of loss that transcends family and political lines.
In Bondo, the word now echoes through the air, representing the people’s love for Raila Odinga — affectionately known as “Baba”, meaning “father.”
A Community in Shock
For many residents, Raila’s reported passing is deeply personal. To them, he was not just a politician but a son of the soil — a man whose political journey was intertwined with the community’s identity.
“We have lost our father, our leader, our pride,” said Mama Achieng, a local shopkeeper in Bondo town. “When I heard the news, my heart broke. Jowi to Baba Raila.”
Others stood in disbelief, holding transistor radios close to their ears, hoping for official confirmation from the family or ODM Party.
The county administration has urged calm, asking residents to wait for an official statement, even as thousands continue to gather outside the Odinga home in Siaya.
Nationwide Reaction
Across the country, social media platforms flooded with condolences and emotional tributes. Hashtags like #RailaOdinga and #JowiBaba began trending as Kenyans from all walks of life expressed their shock.
Leaders from both sides of the political divide paid glowing tributes to Raila, describing him as a “pillar of democracy” and a champion of justice.
Internationally, messages of sympathy poured in from African leaders and foreign diplomats, recognizing Raila’s long-standing contribution to regional politics.
Bondo: The Heart of Odinga’s Legacy
Bondo is more than just Raila’s hometown — it is the cradle of the Odinga political dynasty. His father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, is buried there, and the family home has long been a pilgrimage site for ODM supporters and pro-democracy activists.
The emotional outpouring seen today reflects that deep connection. Many residents say they grew up inspired by Raila’s fiery speeches, resilience, and unshakeable belief in change.
Awaiting Official Word
Despite the overwhelming mourning, uncertainty still clouds the situation.
Kenyan authorities and ODM officials have yet to issue a formal statement confirming or denying the reports of Raila Odinga’s death.
Fact-checkers, including Africa Check, have cautioned the public to rely only on verified news sources to avoid misinformation.
Still, for the people of Bondo, the pain feels real.
Whether confirmed or not, today’s emotional scenes show just how deeply one man’s life has touched generations.
Final Thoughts
As dusk falls on Bondo, the streets remain filled with song, prayer, and tears. The chants of “Jowi, Jowi, Baba!” echo across the villages, a haunting reminder of how closely Raila Odinga’s story is woven into the heart of Kenya’s political and cultural identity.
In Bondo tonight, grief walks hand in hand with pride — for even in death, or the fear of it, Raila Odinga’s name unites his people one more time.
