Kenya Stockholm Blog

L-R: The late Mr. Sumba introducing former Ambassador Mr. Michael Sergon (C) to Mr. Joseph Munene aka Man Nzoro during the wedding of Mr. Laban Mberi in Stockholm

The late Mr. Patrick Onyango Sumba was accorded a state-like burial at his home in Alego Kaluo Kobare on 31st October, 2009. Family members, relatives, friends and high profile politicians like Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Lands Minister James Orengo, were among those who attended. He was given a royal send off and all the speakers spoke great things about him.

Sumba’s ex-wife, Dr. Rosemary Onyango and sons Pinto and Andrew, were central in paying their last respects. Their presence meant a lot and they were highly appreciated. Mr. Jack Mulo, the late Paddy’s comrade and confidant who is based in Sweden, was also recognized for having worked very closely with him, even in exile.

During speeches, Mr. James Orengo used the opportunity to attack Agriculture Minister Mr. Willian Ruto for beginning Presidential campaigns “too early”. According to Orengo, whose views were supported by Assistant Finance Minister Oburu Odinga, ODM’s nominations for the post of president could not be made through public declarations.

Dr. Oburu told the mourners that ODM had its own way of nominating its presidential candidate and that an individual could not begin to raise the issue three years before elections. He said that ODM will not stop anybody from vying for Presidency but added that the time is not yet ripe for ODM members to begin campaigns for presidential nominations. Noting that there are Kenyans who are good at long and short races, Dr. Oburu said that becoming President of Kenya is not easy.

On his part, Prime Minister Raila Odinga steered clear of talk about the presidency. Instead, he concentrated on the need for a new constitution and stressed that it was important for Kenyans to have a Constitution that was acceptable to everybody. Mr. Odinga lamented the fact that the Judiciary had lost its credibility and said that Constitutional reforms would include institutional reforms so that the existing institutions could be made more effective.

The mourners were also addressed by Gem MP Jackoyo Midiwo who questioned the process through which Finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta had tendered VW Passat cars to replace fuel guzzling Mercedes Benzes for Ministers and Assistant Ministers.

The presence of former Stockholmers was acknowledged as they entered in a 4×4 Nissan Patrol vehicle, with a Swedish flag flying high on the front. Minister Orengo jokingly mentioned that their vehicle was larger than his. It is usual to size up material possessions during burial ceremonies in Kenya.

The team, which consisted of Dr. Wycliffe Odiwuor, Mr. Thomas Opande, Mr. Waore Diang’a and the writer, was honored to be there and took photos which will be shared later at KSB. Some returned to Kisumu today, while others are driving back to Nairobi and were past Naivasha at the time of reporting, Sunday 1st November at 17:30, Swedish time.

Rose Adero,
Nairobi-bound