Former PM Raila Odinga mourns death of Jerry Okungu

The late journalist Jerry Okungu

By STANDARD DIGITAL REPORTER

NAIROBI, KENYA: CORD leader Raila Odinga mourned the death passes message of condolence to the family, friends of journalist Jerry Okungu, who died Tuesday.

“My wife Ida and I were saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry. He was a true family friend who was also very ethical and professional in his career,” Mr Odinga said.

Mr Odinga described Mr Okungu was a defender of democratic ideals and values of open society where the media is free to hold public leaders to account. We will miss him dearly.

I knew Mr Okungu personally and closely. I will long remember him as a thorough professional who employed immense skills, energy and talent for causes that matter to our country.

Mr Odinga said Okungu injected balance and fairness in his commentaries and "it was easy to see his point even when he was coming directly after you."

Our thoughts are with Jerry's family, his friends, and the colleagues who knew or worked with him,” Mr Odinga said.

Meanwhile Mr Odinga leaves the country on Thursday for Cape Town, South Africa, where he will open a conference by Liberal International.