I don’t know when Raila wrote will to be buried within 72 hours; Ida Odinga
I don't know when Raila wrote will to be buried within 72 hours; Ida Odinga
Mama Ida Odinga has recounted her shock at Raila’s final burial wishes as the family receives his memorabilia on Friday.
Mama Ida Odinga has opened up on the shock and emotional strain the family faced following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
Ida revealed that his wish to be buried within 72 hours came as a complete surprise to them.
Speaking Friday during the presentation of Raila Odinga memorabilia to his family at their Karen home, Ida said the short burial timeline outlined in Raila’s will caught the family unprepared, forcing them to move with unusual speed in a country where funerals are often organised over weeks.
“I don’t know when he wrote this will of his to be buried at 72 hours, whether he wrote it in Kenya or somewhere else,” Ida said.
“But 72 hours is such a short time. You know Kenyan funerals and how they go. Things had to be rushed very quickly.”
She expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for stepping in at a critical moment to ensure that Raila’s final wishes were respected.
“We are most grateful to the President, His Excellency William Ruto. He came in and stood to ensure his will was honoured, and so we convey our gratitude to him,” she said.
Ida noted that Raila’s death itself was unexpected, leaving the family grappling with unfinished matters and the sudden reality of loss.
“There are still many things that have to be done. I was kind of surprised. We didn’t expect Raila to die at this time. It came to us as a surprise,” she said.
Government to preserve all Raila Odinga tributes in National Archives forever
I am Baba’s adopted son, and Winnie is my small sister – Oketch Salah
Protect me against those who want to finish my political career; Babu Owino pleads
General Muhoozi apologises to the U.S. after sanction threats
In a lighter but deeply personal reflection, Ida spoke warmly of her 52-year marriage to the veteran opposition leader, drawing smiles from those in attendance.
“We’ve been married for 52 years, and all those years we had our good and bad times,” she said.
“Being Raila’s wife was great fun, and it’s the best time of my life.”
The ceremony marked the formal presentation of Raila’s memorabilia, a symbolic gesture recognising his long public life and far-reaching influence in Kenya and beyond.
Ida said the family continues to receive visitors and condolence messages from across the country and around the world.
“Today, we are still receiving visitors and messages of condolence. I know this will not end soon, and our homes remain open. You are all welcome,” she said.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei who presented it said the memorabilia comprises four volumes documenting Raila Odinga’s legacy.
Blow to Gachagua as Supreme Court issues ruling on impeachment case
Sifuna advises Faith Odhiambo to reject Ruto’s donation to LSK
Gachagua, Kalonzo and other opposition leaders March to IG Kanja’s office
Matiang’i fires back at Duale over CBC mess claims
Australian High Commission warning over fraudulent employment and visa scams
Follow us
