Chief Justice Martha Koome on Friday led a delegation from the Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to visit Mama Ida Odinga following the death of her husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The Chief Justice described Raila as a symbol of resilience and a visionary who shaped Kenya’s journey toward democracy and justice.
In a message shared after the visit, Koome reflected on her personal connection with Raila, dating back to the 1980s when he was detained without trial.
At the time, a young Koome—then only 26 years old—was part of the legal team representing him before the Detention Review Tribunal, an experience she said left a lasting impression.
“I first came to know Hon. Raila during one of the most difficult chapters of his life; his long detention without trial.That encounter gave me a firsthand appreciation of his remarkable courage, unbreakable spirit, and unyielding faith in freedom and justice," Koome recalled.
She went on to recount how their paths crossed again during Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy in the 1990s, where both stood on the frontlines advocating for constitutional reform.
According to Koome, Raila’s steadfast belief in the rule of law and equality before the law inspired many who would later take part in building a new constitutional order.
The Chief Justice noted that Raila’s political life was defined by sacrifice and conviction, values that continue to guide Kenya’s democratic institutions today.
“Hon. Raila stood out as a leader of conviction, deeply committed to constitutionalism and democratic governance,” she said.
The visit by the Judiciary delegation adds to a growing list of national leaders and institutions expressing solidarity with the Odinga family.
Raila’s passing has prompted widespread tributes from across the political divide, reflecting the depth of his influence on Kenya’s democratic journey.
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