What Ida Odinga Did Immediately After Mentioning Oburu Oginga Name During Bondo Handover Event Today

The dedication ceremony for the mausoleum of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, was marked by emotional tributes and the presence of senior government officials, regional leaders and members of the Odinga family.

President William Ruto led the official state handover and dedication ceremony for the monument, which was constructed by military engineers to honour the late veteran politician. The gathering brought together prominent personalities to mark the completion of the memorial and reflect on Raila’s political legacy.

One of the notable moments occurred when Raila’s widow, Dr. Ida Betty Odinga, addressed the gathering. During her speech, she explained the absence of Dr. Oburu Oginga, Raila’s elder brother and the acting Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, who was unable to attend the ceremony because of illness.

Ida conveyed Oburu’s apologies to President Ruto and other distinguished guests, explaining that the Siaya senator was receiving medical care in hospital. She then appealed to Kenyans to remember him in their prayers and expressed hope that he would recover soon.

“Allow me to convey apologies from my senior brother-in-law, Dr. Oburu Oginga, who is unfortunately unable to be with us today because he is unwell. I know we will continue to pray for him, and soon he will be with us again here,” Ida stated.

Her remarks drew a solemn response from those attending the ceremony. She also expressed optimism that Oburu would regain his strength and participate in the first anniversary commemoration of Raila’s death, scheduled for October 15.

The public update came amid widespread speculation about Oburu’s condition. Reports circulating on social media had claimed that the 82-year-old politician had died, causing concern among supporters, particularly in the Nyanza region.

Ida’s statement helped address the rumours by clarifying that he was unwell and receiving medical attention rather than confirming the claims circulating online.

Additional reassurance came from Oburu’s son, Jaoko Oburu Oginga, who read his father’s written speech during the event. He explained that his father was following medical advice to rest and avoid physical exertion.

According to Jaoko, Oburu remained alert and stable and appreciated the messages of concern he had received from members of the public.

The ceremony therefore combined the formal dedication of Raila’s mausoleum with renewed attention to the health of another influential member of the Odinga family.

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