Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili could not hold back his tears as he celebrated former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during Mashujaa Day celebrations held in the county.
Owili, on Thursday, October 20, described Raila as a hero to millions of Kenyans.
It, therefore, pained him to see Raila lose five times in his quest for the presidency since the introduction of multi-party democracy to the August 9 elections.
An overwhelmed Owili paused his address to wipe the tears from his eyes as his emotions soared.
"We celebrate another decorated shujaa - one of the best presidents we will never have - the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
"You all know his painful story in the struggle and fight for democracy in this country," he stated.
Owili urged Kenyans to continue supporting Raila despite losing to President William Ruto in the August 9 General Election.
He also advised them to emulate the former premier and support one another, especially during the current harsh economic times.
"Nonetheless, it is all over. I want to let the people of Luo Nyanza know that your neighbour's struggles must give you sleepless nights.
"If there is something you can do to improve the lives of others, please do," the deputy governor stated.
The DG led the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kisumu county as his boss, Anyang Nyong'o was out of the country.
Nyong'o travelled earlier in the week to the Netherlands with his Nakuru counterpart, Susan Kihika, in search of donors.
