Siaya Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has been officially crowned the Luo Community Leader during a ceremony held at Thim Lich Ohinga in Migori County.
In a statement, Oburu described the occasion as a great honor, saying he had accepted the role with humility and a strong sense of responsibility.
He pledged to serve the community with integrity, unity, and purpose.
“Today marks a great honor as I am officially crowned the Luo Community Leader at Thim Lich Ohinga in Migori County. I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep commitment to serve with integrity, unity, and purpose,” Oburu said.
The ceremony brought together members of the Luo community and local leaders, underscoring the cultural and political significance of the event.
Thim Lich Ohinga, a site of historical importance, provided the setting for the leadership transition.
Oburu, a veteran politician and former Cabinet minister, said the responsibility entrusted to him would guide his engagement with the community as he seeks to promote cohesion and shared values among the Luo people.
At the same event, President William Ruto was also crowned a Luo elder.
Speaking after the event, the President said the ceremony underscored the importance of cultural heritage and unity, noting that the site holds significant historical value for the Luo community and the country at large.
“Later, at the Thimlich Ohinga Historic Site, I was honoured to be crowned as a Luo elder alongside ODM Party Leader, Hon Oburu Odinga,” Ruto said.
He added that they committed to supporting the establishment of a fully developed cultural centre at the site to safeguard heritage and promote tourism.
“We committed to supporting the establishment of a proper cultural centre at the Thimlich Ohinga Historic Site to preserve our history, promote tourism, and pass our heritage on to future generations,” the President said.
Thimlich Ohinga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Migori County, is regarded as a key cultural landmark, with leaders saying enhanced infrastructure and preservation efforts would boost cultural education and tourism in the region.
by BRIAN ORUTA
