Bishop David Kodia Warns Against Splitting Political Parties Ahead of Elections

Anglican Church of Kenya Bishop David Kodia cautioned political leaders against breaking up parties, saying Kenya cannot afford further divisions as the country approaches the next elections.

Kodia said he had been closely watching the political scene, noting that the so-called biggest party south of the Sahara and north of the Limpopo – the Orange Democratic Movement – was being affected by attempts to split it.

He invoked the memory of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, stating that such developments would perhaps not have occurred had the former leader been alive.

The bishop warned that continued fragmentation could undermine investor confidence, adding that Kenyans are not fools and would not invest in a fragmented system with no future.

Kodia made the remarks during the handover and dedication of Raila Odinga’s mausoleum at Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County on Wednesday.

President William Ruto led the official commissioning of the mausoleum, with Siaya Governor James Orengo, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and other national and county leaders in attendance.

He noted a change in mood from the tension and grief that followed Raila’s death, saying those gathered were now more relaxed and could even smile.

Kodia asked the gathering to repeat the words “Rest in Peace” and urged everyone to allow the former Prime Minister to rest in peace, saying further discussions would not help him.

The ceremony marks one year since Raila Odinga’s death on October 15, 2025, at age 80, and falls within Mwezi wa Baba, a month dedicated to remembering his life and political contribution.

The mausoleum, constructed at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, is expected to become an important heritage site preserving Raila Odinga’s legacy.