As Kenyans prepare to mark one year since the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, businessman Oduk Odinga has offered a deeply personal reflection of a man remembered not only for his public life, but also for the importance he attached to family.
For Oduk, the remembrance of Raila goes beyond the towering political figure known across Kenya and Africa. It is also about the husband, father, brother, grandfather and relative who placed a premium on family bonds and remained connected to those closest to him despite the demands of public life.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, in India while receiving medical treatment, aged 80. His death brought an end to a political career spanning decades, but accounts from his family portrayed another side of the former Prime Minister — a deeply devoted family man who treasured his relationships at home.
Oduk says this personal side of Raila deserves to be remembered as Kenyans celebrate his life and reflect on the values he carried outside the political arena.
Raila was married to Mama Ida Odinga for more than five decades, and together they raised four children — the late Fidel, Rosemary, Raila Junior and Winnie. His family has previously described him as a loving husband, father, brother and grandfather, offering glimpses into the private life behind the public persona.
For Oduk, Raila’s commitment to family was reflected in the value he placed on maintaining relationships, respecting elders and ensuring that family remained a source of strength and unity.
That dimension of his personality is particularly significant as the Odinga family and Kenyans prepare to commemorate the first anniversary of his passing. The family has said the anniversary provides an opportunity for Kenyans to mourn, remember and celebrate the life of a man who belonged to many beyond his immediate household.
The official commemorations are expected to provide an opportunity to remember different aspects of Raila’s life, including his political contribution, his role in Kenya’s democratic journey and, importantly, his relationships with family and friends.
His son, Raila Junior, recalled his father as a man who gave him guidance, encouragement and unconditional love, while promising to take care of the family he had left behind.
One year later, Oduk’s tribute therefore adds another layer to the national remembrance of Raila: that behind the statesman known as “Baba” was a family man who understood that enduring legacies are also built through love, loyalty, togetherness and strong family ties.
As Kenyans celebrate his life, those close to him say these personal qualities should remain part of the story of Raila Amolo Odinga — a man whose public journey was inseparable from the family that stood beside him through it all.
