Ida also criticised sections of the political class over the conduct witnessed at the event, urging leaders to ensure their supporters respected people with differing political views.
By Bradley BosireSpeaking during the first anniversary of Raila’s death at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, Ida called on political leaders and supporters to respect differing opinions and unite after elections, saying political rivals should not be treated as enemies.
By David AbonyoThe crowds began building before sunrise, with the first attendees arriving at around 6am. By mid-morning, the grounds were packed, and more people continued arriving to join the commemoration as police officers helped direct the crowds and maintain order.
By Maureen KinyanjuiSpeaking at the venue, Ida, Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), said Raila’s decades in politics had enabled him to build connections across different political movements and sections of society.
By Bradley BosireIda maintained that the political relationship between Ruto and Raila should therefore be viewed as having begun long before their political handshake that brought the two together after years of political confrontation
By Chrispho OwuorRaila died in India on October 15, 2025, aged 80, bringing to an end a political career that spanned several decades and saw him become one of the country’s most prominent opposition figures.
By Maureen KinyanjuiOloo said Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, had made it clear that although everyone was welcome, “goons” would not be allowed to take part in the celebrations.
By Chrispho OwuorManyora suggested that Sifuna would probably not have broken away from ODM if Ida had taken charge, saying their relationship would not have developed into the kind of disagreement he has had with Oburu.
By Maureen KinyanjuiSpeaking during the funeral of their cousin, Prof. Jacob Midiwo, Ida expressed concern over the growing tendency of some youth being associated with criminal or disruptive activities, saying such labels were damaging and unjust.
By Bradley BosireSpeaking in Mombasa, Ida made it clear that despite her proximity to influential political figures, she does not consider herself part of the political class.
By Bradley BosireThe approval followed a report by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, which found Mama Ida suitable for the post.
By Bradley BosireThe report is set to be tabled during Wednesday’s plenary sitting, where Members of Parliament will debate the recommendation and vote on whether to adopt or reject it.
By Maureen KinyanjuiIda's heartfelt reflection momentarily shifted the formal tone of the vetting, revealing the personal dimension behind her public service aspirations. Ida expressed sincere appreciation to President William Samoei Ruto for trusting her with the role of Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
By Maureen KinyanjuiKenya’s National Assembly will vet Ida Odinga and Francis Meja on 20 February 2026 in Nairobi, inviting public memoranda as part of the constitutional approval process for the two presidential nominees.
By David AbonyoIda recalled that Raila’s death itself came as a shock, leaving unresolved matters and unexpected responsibilities for the family to handle. Ida said they were not anticipating his passing at this stage, which added to the intensity of their grief.
By Maureen KinyanjuiThe East African Legislative Assembly lawmaker said the nomination reflects Ida Odinga’s decades of leadership and dedication to public service.
By Maureen KinyanjuiIf approved by Parliament, Ida will replace Ababu Namwamba, who was earlier in the week reappointed as Kenya's Ambassador to Uganda.
By Samuel OtienoIda recalled meeting Raila 54 years ago while studying at the University of Nairobi. At the time, she said, he showed no signs of the political life that would later define his destiny and reshape Kenya’s history.
By Bradley BosireSpeaking during the burial ceremony at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, on Sunday, Ida said she had never imagined she would be the one to lead the family and the nation in laying Raila to rest.
By Bradley BosireI had dreamed of retiring together, of growing old hand in hand, sharing quiet sunsets and dreams fulfilled. But now, I realise life’s plans are in the hands of a higher power.
By Ida OdingaThe announcement was made during a solemn ceremony held on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the ACK Church in Siaya County.
By Brenda Socky