The sudden passing of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga left his family grappling with both grief and unexpected instructions for his burial. Kenya’s nominee to UNEP, Ida Odinga, has described the emotional strain and surprise the family faced upon learning of Raila’s wish to be laid to rest within just 72 hours.
During a ceremony on Friday at the family’s Karen residence where Raila’s memorabilia was formally presented, Ida shared that the short burial timeline was unforeseen and posed logistical challenges. She said this requirement forced the family to act swiftly in a country where funeral preparations usually take 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.”
Ida expressed appreciation to President William Ruto for stepping in to ensure that Raila’s final instructions were fulfilled, describing his support as timely and crucial during a moment of deep family distress.
“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.
She 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.
“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.
Turning to a personal reflection, Ida spoke warmly about her 52-year marriage to the veteran politician, recalling both difficult and joyful moments in their life together.
“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 presentation of Raila Odinga’s memorabilia symbolised the recognition of his decades-long public service and influence across Kenya and the globe. Ida said the family continues to receive visitors and messages of condolence, showing that public support remains strong.
“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 handed over the memorabilia, explained that the collection consists of four volumes documenting Raila’s life and work. The first volume contains tributes from global leaders, highlighting his influence in international relations and diplomacy.
The second volume gathers messages from institutions, organisations, and individuals, reflecting the reach of his leadership beyond Kenya. The final volumes preserve records, reflections, and insights into his work as a statesman, reformist, and Pan-African figure whose ideas and initiatives left a mark far beyond national borders.
