Jaramogi's former aide elected Luo Council of Elders chairman

Former Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s aide  Odungi Randa has been elected the chairman of the Luo Council of Elders.

Mr Randa was elected by elders at Tom Mboya University before being unveiled in public at Homa Bay High School.

Randa was elected through a concensus by elders from Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu and Siaya counties. The elders said they were guided by traditional spirits before they settled on Randa.

Randa who hails from Kisumu County has now succeeded the late Opiyo Otondi who died in February this year.

Otondi also hailed from Kisumu County.

After his election, Randa was unveiled to the public by being accorded traditional instruments of power.

The instrument included a traditional cap, a wear made of animal skin, and a fly whisk among others.

Speaking after being installed, Randa said he will serve the Luo community with transparency.

"I thank the elders for electing me.  I will serve the community without any corruption," Randa said.

He called on the Luo community to embrace unity.

"Let's be united as a community to enhance the promotion of our culture," he added.

Elder James Ayaga from Siaya County was elected Randa' deputy.

The installation ceremony was presided over by Azimimio leader Raila Odinga, governors Gladys Wanga, Ochilo Ayacko, James Orengo and Abdulswamad Nasir and more than 20 ODM MPs.

He was elected despite a court order in which Siaya High Court stopped the election until a case filed by the chairman of another faction of the Luo Council of Elders Nyandiko Ongadi is heard.