Murkomen recalls how Raila mentored him during his early political days

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has shared an emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, recalling how the opposition leader mentored him during his early days in politics.

Speaking ahead of Raila’s burial at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, on Sunday, October 19, 2025, Murkomen said Raila played a key role in shaping his political career and understanding of leadership.

Murkomen said his relationship with Raila was personal and went beyond political competition.

“We mourn a great Kenyan. It is personal to me because, in my younger political career, the former Prime Minister was the one who held my hand and helped me appreciate devolution. That is what paved the way for me to run in the Senate. Even when he was on the other side of the political aisle, I always got an opportunity… I really cherish those moments,” he said.

Murkomen described Raila as a leader who believed in building others, regardless of political differences. He said that Raila’s mentorship helped him understand the true meaning of service and sacrifice in public office.

Murkomen commends security team

Raila Odinga’s body arrived at JOOUST in Bondo on Sunday, where thousands of mourners, government officials, and leaders from across the country gathered to pay their final respects. Military officers led the solemn ceremony as the body of the late leader was received with full honours.

Preparations had been in top gear at the university hours before the arrival. Top military officials and police officers were seen coordinating every detail to ensure the event went smoothly. The area where Raila’s casket was placed was covered with a red carpet as part of the final honour.

Murkomen also acknowledged the efforts of security teams and organisers who worked tirelessly to ensure the event ran as planned. “This has been a very challenging event because it was not on the government calendar of events. We had issues at JKIA, which some people are saying was easy, but it was not easy at all. But we tried our best,” he said.

The CS further appreciated Raila’s supporters for their cooperation and discipline throughout the mourning period. “We would not have been able to do this were it not for the cooperation of Raila Odinga’s supporters. So far, the event is successful,” he added.