Raila set to unveil new Luo Council of Elders Chairman

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party leader Raila Odinga is set to unveil the new chairman of the Luo Council of Elders on Saturday.

The seat has been vacant for the last four months following the demise of former chairman Willis Otondi who passed away on February 17, 2023.

While the details of the Chairman's identity remain under wraps, several elders from the community have shown interest to occupy the position.

Mzee Adera Osawa (82), who was a long time aide to the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, is among the names that have been tipped to take over the seat.

The other possible names that have been tossed around include current Secretary General of the council Mzee Adera Osawa (76), as well as Mzee Owino Nyadi, the Executive Director.

The ceremony which will take place in Homa Bay County is expected to be attended by political leaders from the Luo community.

In attendance will be Luo Nyanza Governors Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), Prof. Anyang’ Nyongo (Kisumu), James Orengo (Siaya) and Ochillo Ayacko (Migori).

The council consists of respected elders who serve as custodians of Luo traditions, culture, and values.

Their role extends beyond cultural matters, as they often play a crucial part in shaping political dynamics within the community.

After engaging Mr. Odinga, Governor Wanga said her colleagues decided to host the celebration under the subject ‘Jaluo gi tiende’ (Luos and their roots).

Despite the Governors' insistence that the festival is simply cultural, politics has previously taken the centre stage in similar celebrations in Kisumu and Homa Bay.