In the Luo-Nyanza region whose political power is no pushover, there are three days in history that can never be forgotten.
These days have a significant meaning to Kenyans living in the Lakeside region.
1. January, 20, 1994
On this day, Nyanza and the entire nation woke up to the sad news that the founding father and first Vice President of the Republic Jaramogi Oginga Odinga was no more.
The then leading opposition figure carried massive hopes from Kenyans who observed him as their liberator, at a time when retired President Daniel Moi’s leadership had taken a dictatorial turn.
He succumbed to heart attack and was buried at his Kang’o Ka Jaramogi home in Bondo, Siaya county.
2. November 16, 1997
It was the actual day when celebrated Luo Benga musician Okatch Biggy breathed his last.
Okatch who is largely known for his ‘Nyathi Nyakatch’ hit was the leader of the Ochestra Super Heka Heka Band, with which he recorded 5 albums.
He was born in Ujimbe village, Gem constituency in Siaya county 1954.
Okatch was among the musicians who graced Jaramogi's burial 3 years earlier, an event that ended in the fracas after he forgot some of his songs while on his stage.
The blame, however, landed one of his very fat associates named Adwera, who was later chased away by both the people and police.
This, he reveals in his 'Nyathi Nyakatch' track released in 1996.
'Ngama iye ng'ongo no to ringo yombo ango? Adwera ngama ng'ongo ni uchwado otimo ang'o? (why are you beating that fat man? why are you chasing him?),'' he says.
3. December 30, 2007
This was one of the worst political days for the region, when its political chief Raila Odinga was apparently rigged of his win in the presidential election.
Odinga who was racing against his former ally and boss in government President Mwai Kibaki was declared second despite seemingly having won judging by the situation on the ground.
This saw his supporters from Luo Nyanza and the majority of the remaining provinces flood the streets in protest, leading to the 2007-2008 bloody skirmishes.
He would later be installed as the Prime Minister and co-government chief after interventions by the international community.
#historynow, #hivisasaoriginal