ODM leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has condoled with Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch following the death of his father, Mzee Charles Antony Ondiek, who passed away after a 15-year battle with cancer.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Raila described the loss as deeply painful and extended words of comfort to the Oluoch family.
“It is with profound sorrow that I received the news of the passing of your beloved father, Mzee Charles Antony Ondiek. His was a courageous fight over many years, and his departure is a painful loss not only to your family but also to the wider community,” Raila said.
The former Prime Minister remembered Ondiek as a man of integrity and service, recalling their time together in the 1970s at the Kenya Bureau of Standards. He praised him as a community pillar whose influence was widely felt across Kisumu County.
“Kanyakwar and Kisumu at large have lost a towering leader whose legacy of dedication and leadership will be remembered for years to come,” he added.
Raila urged the Mathare MP to draw strength from the memories of his father’s life and the values he instilled, while also extending his condolences to the extended family, friends, and all who knew Mzee Ondiek.
“Please accept my deepest condolences, and convey the same to your family and loved ones. May you find peace and strength in this difficult time,” Raila wrote, assuring the family of his prayers.
