Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has remembered the late Dalmas Otieno as one of Kenya’s most formidable legislators, a leader whose voice and intellect left a permanent mark on the country’s democratic transition.
Speaking in Rongo, Migori County, where he represented President William Ruto at the burial service, Mudavadi described Dalmas as a leader of stature and substance a man who never shied away from debate and whose interventions in Parliament continue to stand tall in the records of the Hansard.
“When I joined Parliament at just 28 years old, Dalmas was already there,” Mudavadi recalled. “His debates were sharp, well-researched, and impactful. Unlike many who pass through Parliament silently, Dalmas made his presence felt every time he spoke.”
Mudavadi noted that Dalmas not only amplified the voice of Rongo Constituency but also helped shape national discourse, both as an MP and Cabinet minister. He singled out Dalmas’ leadership during the Inter-Party Parliamentary Group (IPPG) talks of the 1990s, saying his role in brokering key electoral reforms cemented his place in Kenya’s democratic history.
“Dalmas showed us that democracy is not just about contesting but also about dialogue, fairness, and responsibility,” Mudavadi said. “His hand in those reforms will forever be remembered as part of the foundation of our democratic journey.”
Beyond paying tribute, Mudavadi used the occasion to reflect on present-day governance. He pointed to the spirit of cooperation between President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga as an example of bridge-building after political rivalry, urging leaders to embrace unity over division.
“This broad-based government is a statement that even after fierce competition, leaders can work together. We must safeguard that spirit, nurture it, and ensure it strengthens our democracy rather than weakens it,” he observed.
He also challenged Parliament particularly Budget Committee chair Samuel Atandi to ensure equity in resource allocation, stressing that fairness is non-negotiable in building cohesion.
“Equity and inclusivity are the glue that binds our nation. Leaders must guard them jealously,” he said.
Mudavadi concluded by urging Kenyans to carry forward Dalmas’ values of dedication, fairness, and service, noting that true honor for the late statesman will come from living out the principles he championed.
“Dalmas leaves us with a reminder: democracy demands both a strong voice and deep responsibility. That is the example we must carry forward,” he said.
