Ida Odinga Reveals Why She Left Raila to Go Alone to India

Mama Ida Odinga has explained why she did not accompany her late husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, when he travelled to India for a medical check-up before his death in October 2025.

Ida said Raila’s trip was not prompted by a serious medical condition, explaining that he had travelled for routine medical examinations.

She maintained that she would have accompanied him if his condition had been critical.

Speaking ahead of the first anniversary of Raila’s death, Ida clarified that her decision to remain behind was informed by the nature of the hospital visit, which she said was meant to establish his state of health.

“He was going for a check-up; there was nothing serious. Had it been that serious, I would have gone with him; I would not have left him to go alone, though they went with Winnie,” Ida said.

She explained that Raila underwent medical examinations at the hospital for four days before doctors declared him healthy.

“He went to the hospital, and they did a check on him for four days, and they declared a clean bill of health,” she added.

Her remarks shed light on the circumstances surrounding Raila’s final trip to India, where he died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80.

Raila’s death came as a major loss to his family, political allies and supporters across the country, given his decades-long involvement in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy, constitutional reforms and social justice.

As the family prepares to mark one year since his passing, activities have been lined up at Migwena Cultural Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, where thousands of mourners are expected to gather on Thursday, October 15, to celebrate his life and reflect on his legacy.

Organisers have also called for a peaceful commemoration, urging political leaders and their supporters to avoid turning the anniversary into a platform for political competition.

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