The Siaya International Trade and Investment Conference (SITICO), which commenced today, has been postponed to a later date following the death of ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga in India.
This happened as the Siaya County government also suspended all official functions following the news of Odinga's death.
Speaking at the Siaya National Polytechnic, Siaya Governor James Orengo announced the decision to suspend all proceedings of the conference, stating it was done in honour of the departed former Prime Minister.
SITICO had been envisioned as a platform to elevate Siaya County as a prime destination for investment and economic growth.
“These tragic circumstances necessitate a reassessment of the conference’s ongoing programme. Consequently, all plenary sessions and side events stand postponed until a future date. I stress postponed because, when I spoke with Mr Odinga just the day before yesterday, he was resolute and encouraged us that this conference must proceed as planned,” Governor Orengo said.
ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
President William Ruto had been scheduled to attend the conference on October 16, with Odinga slated to officially close it the following day.
“The greatest tragedy is that he was meant to bring the conference to a close, yet in his passing, he has closed it in a way none of us could have foreseen. We do this as we stand in solidarity with his family and the entire nation in mourning a fallen hero. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused,” the governor added.
Governor Orengo eulogised the late Odinga as an enigma and a towering political figure whose contribution to the nation is without parallel.
“The sun has set on a true patriot and nationalist. An indomitable spirit, a resilient champion of democracy, justice, and prosperity. He was the heartbeat of Kenya’s progressive movement,” he said.
He further reflected on Odinga’s legacy, describing him as “not merely a politician, but a revolutionary, a visionary - a singular force whose influence spans the most consequential five decades of our history.”
In his solemn appeal to the public, Governor Orengo urged Kenyans to carry forward the ideals that Odinga championed.
“His passing leaves a void that no single individual can fill. As we mourn, let us honour his memory not just with our tributes, but by rededicating ourselves to the causes he held dear, amongst them, the fight against corruption, the demand for free and fair elections and the pursuit of national unity founded on justice and equity,” he said.
