President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga on Friday stood side by side in a rare display of political unity as they joined hundreds of mourners in paying their final respects to the late Dr. Phoebe Muga Asiyo in Homa Bay County.
The State funeral, held at Wikondiek Secondary School grounds in Karachuonyo, brought together top national and regional leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Governors Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), James Orengo (Siaya), and Ochilo Ayacko (Migori), as well as MPs from across the political divide.
Dr. Asiyo, who died on July 16, 2025, in North Carolina, USA, at the age of 90, was celebrated as a trailblazer for women’s rights, a distinguished legislator, and a unifying figure in Kenyan society. She served as Karachuonyo MP from 1980 to 1997 and was the first woman from Nyanza to be elected to Parliament. She also made history as the first woman to be installed as a Luo elder and served as a UNIFEM Ambassador between 1988 and 1992.
In his tribute, President Ruto hailed Dr. Asiyo as a courageous and visionary leader whose life was dedicated to uplifting women and promoting equality. He announced that the government would explore ways to immortalize her legacy, including the possible renaming of an institution in her honour.
Raila Odinga described Dr. Asiyo as a personal friend and mentor, noting her role in fostering unity across Kenya’s political and cultural landscape. He also used the occasion to defend his recent political pact with Ruto, urging critics to give the agreement time and allow Kenyans to judge its value in the 2027 elections.
Throughout her lifetime, Dr. Asiyo championed education, gender equality, and community empowerment. She led the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation from 1958, spearheading initiatives that improved health care, promoted economic independence, and enhanced women’s participation in governance.
The funeral was marked by moving tributes, prayers, and the symbolic coming together of leaders from different political camps, an image many described as befitting the life and legacy of a woman who dedicated her years to building bridges.
Dr. Phoebe Asiyo leaves behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire generations, a legacy that leaders and citizens alike pledged to uphold.
