Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has expressed his deep sorrow over the untimely death of his brother, Raila Odinga, clarifying that the former Prime Minister was in good health just hours before his sudden death in India. Speaking at a press conference in Karen on Wednesday, Oburu revealed that he had personally spoken with Raila the night before his passing and that his brother appeared vibrant and full of energy during their last conversation.
“He was very well until last night. I spoke to him, and he was vibrant, up, and kicking,” Oburu said, dispelling rumors about Raila’s health that had been circulating in the media. He emphasized that Raila’s death, which is suspected to have been caused by a heart attack, was unexpected. Oburu further expressed the family’s shock, stating, “It is very unfortunate that this morning he suffered shock, which is suspected after the postmortem to be a heart attack.“
Despite the family’s grief, Oburu urged Kenyans to honor Raila’s legacy with dignity. He expressed hope that the public would respect the family’s wishes for a dignified burial. “We are not just mourning, but we are also celebrating his life,” he added, calling for calm and a respectful approach during this difficult period.
National Committee for State Funeral
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has disclosed the members of the National Committee for the State Funeral of Raila Odinga, which is co-chaired by Oburu Oginga and himself. The committee includes several prominent figures, including Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and SMEs), David Chirchir (Roads and Transport), Soipan Tuya (Defence), Aden Duale (Health), and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor.
The family members involved include Dr. Wenwa Akinyi Oginga, William Ojonyo, Elijah Oburu, and Dr. Joe Oger. From the ODM Party, the committee features Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, and Kisii Governor Simba Arati. The Parliamentary representation includes Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo and Senator Godfrey Osotsi, as well as National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Millie Odhiambo, Dr. James Nyikal, Dr. Otiende Amollo, and Dr. Lilian Gogo.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo will serve as secretary to the committee.
Public Viewing and Burial
The family has confirmed that public viewing of Raila’s body will take place on Thursday, after his body is returned from India. The funeral service will be held on Friday at Nyayo Stadium, where dignitaries and members of the public are expected to pay their respects. Raila’s body will then be moved to Kisumu on Saturday for another public viewing at Moi Stadium, before traveling by road to Bondo for an overnight stay. His burial will take place on Sunday, in accordance with his wishes to be buried within 72 hours of death.
In a statement last week, ODM had dismissed reports claiming Raila was seriously ill, calling such reports propaganda aimed at creating panic. The party confirmed that Raila had been recuperating in India, with plans to return home soon. They noted that Raila had a long tradition of addressing health issues publicly, as seen in 2010 and 2021.
