The Odinga family has once again addressed questions surrounding the burial of the late Beryl Odinga, outlining why she will be laid to rest within their Kang'o Ka Jaramogi homestead.
Speaking on behalf of the family, ODM party leader Oburu Odinga said the plan reflects their culture while also considering the guidance left by their father and the realities of modern life.
He noted that some community members were unsure about the choice because Luo tradition often places a woman’s grave outside the main compound or at her husband’s home. Oburu explained that the only part of the process that differs is the exact burial spot, while all cultural steps required during a woman’s burial will still be followed.
“We know our traditions, and we respect them. Our sister will be buried with her head facing the gate, as the culture requires,” he said. He added that their father had clearly pointed out where every member of the family should be buried, and they were simply keeping to that instruction.
“The world has changed, and land is no longer what it used to be. Our father showed us where every member of the family should be buried. We are simply following that guidance,” he said, stressing that the decision was neither casual nor dismissive of culture.
He said the family understands how strongly the Luo community values its customs but also believes families must use wisdom as times change. “We are not abandoning our culture, and we are not throwing away our sisters,” he said. “We are honouring her and honouring the instructions given to us by our father.”
Oburu asked elders not to view the family’s decision as going against tradition but as an effort to balance what is required with what is practical today.
“If this appears to go against what has been done traditionally, we ask for your understanding. Times have changed, and we must balance tradition with present-day realities,” he said.
The burial plan has sparked broad discussions, dividing opinion within the community. Some see the decision as a natural and reasonable shift in the interpretation of Luo customs, while others feel it stretches the limits of what is allowed by culture. A section of cultural custodians insists that certain rites must be followed without any change.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo also came out strongly in defense of the family. She challenged those insisting on strict tradition, saying, “All those who firmly opine that Beryl Odinga should be buried according to Luo customs, please confirm that your six lower teeth have been removed in strict conformity to culture.” She added, “If not, you are 'boiling'—iwalo!”
Beryl Odinga passed away on November 25, 2025, while receiving treatment in Nairobi. She was the younger sister of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and was known for a professional journey that took her across Kenya and Zimbabwe.
Her burial will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the family cemetery in Bondo.
The program was confirmed after a meeting led by Raila Odinga Junior and attended by family elders, including Oburu Oginga, Betty Oginga, Susan Oginga and her stepbrother Omondi Odinga.
