𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐚 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚 𝐎𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐅𝐞𝐭𝐞.

Kakamega Governor, H.E. FCPA Fernandes Barasa, has described the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga as a true national hero whose courage, sacrifice, and dedication to justice changed Kenya’s political and governance landscape.

Speaking during the 62nd Mashujaa Day celebrations at Matungu Primary School, Governor Barasa said this year’s occasion comes at a sorrowful time as the country continues to mourn the passing of the former Prime Minister and ODM Party Leader. He praised Raila Odinga for his lifelong fight for democracy and good governance, which led to multi-party democracy and the 2010 Constitution.

As the ODM County Chairperson and Chair of the Party Chairs’ Caucus, Governor Barasa pledged to uphold Raila Odinga’s legacy of unity, justice, and service to the people. He urged all public servants to follow Odinga’s example by putting citizens first and not personal interests. “Let us serve with integrity, fairness, and dedication to improve the lives of our people. That is how we truly honour our heroes,” he said.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Transforming Lives Through Sustainable Energy Solutions,” the Governor emphasised the need for clean and renewable energy to support growth in the economy, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He noted that his administration is aligning its development agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve inclusive and lasting transformation.

Governor Barasa also outlined major progress made under his Six Pillars of Development, which include Health, Water and Sanitation, Wealth Creation and Infrastructure, Food Security, Education, Social Development, and Good Governance.

Also present were Kakamega County Commissioner Mr. Mwangi Meru, who delivered President William Ruto’s speech, the First Lady Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa, Deputy Governor Hon. Ayub Savula, Speaker of the County Assembly Rt. Hon. James Namatsi, forces commanders, MCAs, County Executives, and wananchi from all the 12 sub-counties.