Etale Reveals Raila’s Generosity, Says He Donated Millions to Churches Privately

ODM Communications Director Philip Etale has revealed that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga quietly donated at least KSh2 million to churches whenever he visited them.

Speaking on Monday, November 2, 2026, during an interview on the Iko Nini Podcast, Etale described Raila as a generous leader who preferred helping others without attracting public attention.

Etale dismissed claims that the former Prime Minister was stingy, saying his private approach to giving was often misunderstood by critics.

He explained that Raila would usually meet bishops, provosts and other church leaders in their offices before attending services. During these meetings, he would ask about the church’s development needs before offering financial support.

According to Etale, Raila instructed church leaders to use the money for specific projects but never wanted his contributions announced publicly during services.

He said the former Prime Minister extended the same generosity to individuals and families struggling financially, particularly parents who could not afford school fees for their children.

Etale recalled that Raila maintained a list of about 200 beneficiaries from different parts of the country. He personally approved school fee payments through cheques and sometimes adjusted the amount depending on a student’s academic performance.

Etale also disclosed that he had personally benefited from Raila’s generosity, recalling occasions when the former Prime Minister offered him financial assistance after he sought help.

He said Raila believed that helping others should not be accompanied by public praise or recognition. Etale linked the former Prime Minister’s approach to the biblical teaching that one should give quietly without seeking attention.

Raila served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 and remained a prominent figure in the country’s opposition politics for decades. He died in October 2025.

https://www.facebook.com/100063646850476/posts/1731748612290017/?app=fbl

MadowoMedia feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com