“I Still Have His Number” Orengo Speaks on Why He Will Never Delete Raila Odinga's Contacts Even After His Death

Siaya Governor James Orengo has shared an emotional reflection on his long friendship with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, revealing that he still keeps all of Raila’s phone numbers saved on his mobile phone and has no intention of deleting them.

Speaking during a recent interview, the veteran politician opened up about the profound impact Raila’s death had on him, describing the loss as one he is still struggling to fully comprehend months later. 

According to Orengo, the bond they shared over decades of political activism, public service, and personal friendship remains too significant for him to erase even in the smallest ways.

When asked whether Raila’s contacts still remained in his phone, Orengo responded candidly, saying he had preserved every number associated with the former opposition leader.

“I still have his numbers and I will never delete them. It was not just one number. He had several and I still keep all of them,” Orengo reportedly said.

The remarks offered a rare glimpse into the personal side of a relationship that extended far beyond politics. For many years, Orengo and Raila worked closely together within the opposition movement, sharing victories, setbacks, and some of the most defining moments in Kenya’s political history.

During the interview, Orengo also recalled the moment he first learned about Raila’s death. He described receiving the news as deeply shocking and emotionally overwhelming, prompting him to immediately begin making arrangements to travel to Nairobi.

The governor said the events that followed unfolded so rapidly that he found it difficult to process what had happened. According to him, the speed of developments after Raila’s body was returned to Kenya left little time for reflection or acceptance.

Orengo further reflected on Raila’s final days abroad, noting that the former prime minister was surrounded by close family members and security personnel while receiving medical care in India. 

He recalled that Raila remained in communication with friends and associates back home, sharing updates and photographs during the trip.

The governor also expressed surprise at how quickly burial arrangements were implemented following Raila’s passing. 

While acknowledging reports that the former prime minister had wished for a swift burial, Orengo admitted that he personally never saw any formal documentation outlining those wishes.

“It was his wish to be buried quickly, but I never saw the will myself. Everything moved so fast,” he reportedly remarked.

Beyond discussing the funeral arrangements, Orengo spoke emotionally about conversations he had with Raila before his death. 

According to the governor, the veteran politician frequently discussed future plans, political aspirations, and projects he hoped to accomplish, making his sudden departure even more difficult to accept.

The interview has generated widespread discussion among Kenyans, many of whom have reflected on the enduring friendship between the two leaders. 

Supporters noted that keeping a loved one’s contact information after their death is a common way of preserving memories and maintaining a symbolic connection to someone who played a major role in one’s life.

Political observers also highlighted the significance of the relationship between Orengo and Raila, which spanned several decades and helped shape Kenya’s opposition politics. 

Their partnership became synonymous with constitutional reform campaigns, democratic struggles, and numerous political battles that influenced the country’s modern history.

As Kenyans continue to remember Raila’s legacy, Orengo’s heartfelt remarks have resonated with many who understand the difficulty of losing a close friend and mentor. 

His decision to keep Raila’s phone numbers serves as a poignant reminder that while leaders may leave the public stage, the personal connections they build often remain alive in the hearts of those who knew them best.