Two members of Parliament became emotional during tributes to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died recently, as they recalled his mentorship and advocacy for marginalized groups.
Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Atieno Bensuda wept while recounting how Odinga encouraged her political aspirations when others dismissed her chances. She said critics told her pursuing elected office was futile and that securing a party nomination was impossible. After traveling to meet him personally and expressing her concerns, Odinga assured her of his backing. Bensuda eventually won the nomination through a competitive process where voters selected her. She urged politicians to maintain integrity and mentor emerging leaders while avoiding betrayal.
Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian praised Odinga for recognizing youth priorities and criticized the current government structure for housing youth matters within the Sports and Culture Ministry. She argued this arrangement weakens focus on young Kenyans, who comprise more than 75 percent of the population. Lemaletian advocated for establishing a separate Youth Affairs Ministry with dedicated funding and streamlined coordination. She noted Odinga championed this concept during his final campaign because he recognized that neglecting the nation's largest demographic blocks progress.
Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Atieno Bensuda wept while recounting how Odinga encouraged her political aspirations when others dismissed her chances. She said critics told her pursuing elected office was futile and that securing a party nomination was impossible. After traveling to meet him personally and expressing her concerns, Odinga assured her of his backing. Bensuda eventually won the nomination through a competitive process where voters selected her. She urged politicians to maintain integrity and mentor emerging leaders while avoiding betrayal.
Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian praised Odinga for recognizing youth priorities and criticized the current government structure for housing youth matters within the Sports and Culture Ministry. She argued this arrangement weakens focus on young Kenyans, who comprise more than 75 percent of the population. Lemaletian advocated for establishing a separate Youth Affairs Ministry with dedicated funding and streamlined coordination. She noted Odinga championed this concept during his final campaign because he recognized that neglecting the nation's largest demographic blocks progress.
