Don’t debate about Raila burial site – Oburu Odinga
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, has urged Kenyans to cease debate about the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's burial site
Raila’s elder brother and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, has urged Kenyans to cease debate about the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s burial site.
He said, “This matter of where the grave will be or the particular spot. I have seen the will and it clearly states that he wants to be buried where his father and mother are buried, which is at Kang’o ka Jaramogi.”
His sentiments put to rest the growing public speculation and political chatter regarding the final resting place for the ODM leader.
The debate had gained traction online and in various forums, with some suggesting other locations of national significance.
“This is not a matter for discussion or debate,” Oburu stated firmly.
“It is a personal family matter guided by his own written wishes. We must respect the will of my brother.”
Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Siaya County is the homestead where Raila Odinga’s father, the late independence icon Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was laid to rest in 1994. Raila’s mother, Mary Juma Odinga, was also buried there in the family graveyard.
Oburu’s intervention is seen as a decisive move to preempt any potential conflict or confusion, ensuring that the family’s privacy is respected during their time of grief.
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He emphasised that the focus should now shift to celebrating the life and immense legacy of the veteran politician, rather than on the logistics of his interment.
Political allies and family members have echoed Oburu’s sentiments, calling for unity and respect for the Odinga family’s wishes.
They have asked the public to allow the family the space to grieve and to prepare for the funeral arrangements in accordance with the explicit instructions left behind.
On Thursday, Oburu also clarified that Raila will be buried in a private ceremony attended by a select few. However, he did not disclose who the few were.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, according to the funeral programme.
The Oburu statement also puts to rest earlier reports that Raila’s final wishes were to be buried next to his late mother, Mary Juma Odinga, who died in 1984.
With this clarification, it is expected that all planned funeral and burial ceremonies will be conducted at the family home in Siaya, bringing a close to the public discourse on the subject and allowing for a dignified send-off for the former prime minister.
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