Earlier today, at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the Catholic Church visited the grave of the late Jakom Raila Amolo Odinga. They held a mass, offered prayers, and sang songs in honour of the man many Kenyans—this writer included—regarded as Kenya’s “People’s President”, aka Agwambo. The mood was solemn yet celebratory, a rare moment when faith met legacy.
However, the visit stirred quiet murmurs. Raila was buried under the Anglican Church, where he was a lifelong member and active participant. The Anglican clergy presided over his burial service, consistent with his faith that Raila proffessed. So, seeing a Catholic mass at his resting place, naturally would raise pertinent questions.
Was this visit guided by divine inspiration — a reflection of unity beyond denomination — or was it influenced by the political and financial stature of the Odinga family? The Odingas are no strangers to power and reverence, both in life and in death. It’s hard to tell whether this was an act of pure faith or a show of association with influence and affluence that the family is associated with.
Whatever the motive, one cannot ignore the symbolism. The scene at Kang’o ka Jaramogi brings to light how power, faith, and legacy often intertwine in ways that challenge our understanding of spirituality. Even death, it seems, must still wonder who it carried away this time.
