Raila's first assignment to new Luo Ker

By Peter Ochieng

Azimio La Umoja One Kenya, leader Raila Odinga has urged the new luo council of elders chairman (Ker) Odungi Randa to initiate plans aimed at ensuring that children are taught luo history and culture.

Speaking during the coronation of Randa as the 9th luo Ker at Ofafa Memorial Hall in Kisumu on Friday, Odinga said the community's culture and history must be passed on from generation to generation, to prevent it from dying.

"Our children must know our culture for it to be preserved," said Odinga who doubles up as the patron of luo council of elders.

"If you go to China, children are being taught culture and Chinese history. If you go to the US and other places, they are doing the same," he added.

Odungi Randa was installed as the 9th luo Ker, taking over from Willis Opiyo Otondi, who died early this year.

The ceremony was attended by a host of luo leaders, among them governors Anyang' Nyong'o (Kisumu), Gladys Wanga (Homabay), Ochillo Ayacko (Migori) and James Orengo (Siaya).

Raila's elder brother, and Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga said having served as Jaramogi Oginga Odinga's Personal Assistant (PA) several years ago, Randa deserves to serve as Ker.

Jaramogi was the first luo Ker and Kenya's first vice president.

"I am happy because Odungi Randa is our brother. He was very close to Jaramogi for many years. Odungi, remember our culture is dying. Our children have abandoned our culture," stated the veteran politician.

Nyong'o, Orengo, Wanga and Ayacko urged all luos worldwide to unite behind Randa's chairmanship.

"We now have a new leader. Odungi Randa, we welcome you. We are behind you," said Nyong'o.

"Our unity is our strength. The Ker of luos is Odungi Randa," added Wanga.

The new Ker thanked the leaders for the overwhelming support.