Big Tragedy for Luo Community as Top Elder Dies Shortly After Raila’s Burial, Demands Fast Burial

The Luo community is in deep mourning once again following the sudden death of Ker Odungi Randa, the revered chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, who passed away just hours after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s burial.

The shocking loss, which coincided with the nation’s farewell to Odinga, has cast a heavy shadow over Nyanza.

Randa, aged 78, succumbed to respiratory complications while undergoing treatment at a Kisumu hospital shortly after attending Odinga’s interment in Bondo, which was marked by traditional Luo rituals such as Tero Buru and Jowi blessings.

A close confidant of the late Raila Odinga, Randa’s passing stunned mourners still reeling from the loss of the former premier, whose farewell blended Anglican rites with traditional Liel elements.

In a surprising move, Randa had requested that his own funeral be conducted swiftly, defying the Luo tradition of extended burials. He emphasized the need to save land and reduce the emotional strain of prolonged mourning.

True to his wishes, his body was cremated in Kisumu on October 20, with the ashes scattered along the shores of Lake Victoria in a private ceremony attended by family members and select elders.

“Baba chose progress — honoring tradition while adapting to today’s realities,” said his son, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o.

Randa’s decision mirrors Raila Odinga’s own burial, which also introduced modern elements to long-held Luo customs. 

Both events have sparked discussions about evolving cultural practices and the need to embrace simpler, more practical funerals in the modern era.

President William Ruto has since sent his condolences to the family, urging Kenyans to uphold unity and mutual respect during this difficult period. Counseling centers have also been opened in Siaya and Homa Bay to support the grieving community.

Randa’s passing marks the end of an era — and perhaps the beginning of a cultural transformation — as the Luo community navigates the pain of double loss and the debate over modernizing age-old traditions.