By Joshua Otieno | April 23, 2026
BONDO, KENYA — Former Chief Justice David Maraga on Thursday visited the Kang’o Ka Jaramogi shrine in Bondo to pay his respects at the grave of the late Raila Odinga.
Maraga, who has recently been touring the country mobilizing youth voter registration under the United Green Movement (UGM), was received by members of Odinga’s family during the visit. As part of the traditional tribute, he presented two bulls as a symbolic gesture of honour and recognition of the late leader’s contribution to Kenya’s democratic journey.
Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in Kochi, India. His death prompted a week-long period of national mourning declared by President William Ruto, culminating in a state funeral attended by leaders from across the region.
Since then, Kang’o Ka Jaramogi has emerged as a symbolic political site, attracting prominent figures seeking to pay tribute and connect with Odinga’s enduring legacy ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Maraga’s visit adds to a growing list of high-profile leaders making similar pilgrimages. Among them is Kalonzo Musyoka, who previously visited the shrine and presented 150 cows, as well as a delegation of North Rift governors who donated 80 bulls in late 2025.
The former Chief Justice’s presence in Bondo is also being viewed through a political lens, coming at a time when he is increasingly being mentioned as a potential presidential contender in 2027. His recent public engagements, including rallies in Bomet and Chuka, have fueled speculation about a possible bid.
While framed as a cultural and respectful tribute, the visit underscores the continued political relevance of Odinga’s legacy and its influence on Kenya’s evolving political landscape as the next election cycle approaches.
