By Reverend Dr. Kodia has urged Kenyans to reject the growing culture of money-driven politics and instead embrace the “power of persuasion” a value he said defined the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga’s moral and political legacy.
Delivering a moving sermon during Odinga’s memorial mass at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, Rev. Kodia said the veteran opposition leader stood out among politicians because he led through conviction, not corruption, and through persuasion, not payoffs.
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“He never used the power of his wallet to convince others, but instead relied on the power of persuasion,” Rev. Kodia told the thousands of mourners, drawing applause from the packed stadium.
The cleric, preaching under the theme “The Power of the Word,” reminded Kenyans that leadership rooted in faith, truth, and service was far more powerful than leadership motivated by money and influence.
“God has given us His power in His word,” he said. “That power was not meant to buy loyalty but to proclaim freedom, to rebuke evil, and to build a better nation.”
Rev. Kodia decried the erosion of moral values in Kenyan politics, saying the “handout culture” had enslaved citizens to short-term gain while undermining long-term national progress.
“Most of our politicians have taught our people the culture of handouts. Whenever you see a leader, you only see money,” he lamented. “But Raila Odinga showed us another way — that true power lies in ideas, conviction, and the courage to stand for what is right.”
He praised Odinga as a man of peace and principle who dedicated his life to freedom, justice, and equality.
“He proclaimed a new dawn in Kenya — a time when every person could speak freely and live without fear,” Rev. Kodia said. “Let us honor his legacy by using our own power to proclaim what is good for our nation.”
The mass, attended by political leaders, clergy, and thousands of citizens, was marked by prayer, song, and tributes from across the region. Many described Odinga as a freedom fighter and Pan-Africanist who sacrificed personal comfort for Kenya’s democracy and unity.
As the country prepares for Odinga’s burial on Sunday, Rev. Kodia’s message echoed across the nation a call to return to moral politics and leadership built not on the strength of the wallet, but on the power of persuasion.
