Ida Odinga shared an update on Oburu’s health during Raila’s anniversary commemoration.
Ida Odinga says doctors advised Oburu Oginga to rest and avoid a large rally marking the first anniversary of Raila Odinga’s death.
Ida Odinga has offered an Oburu health update, reassuring supporters that her brother-in-law is not seriously ill. She said doctors advised Oburu Oginga to rest rather than attend a rally commemorating Raila Odinga.
Speaking at the gathering marking the first anniversary of her husband’s death, Ida conveyed Oburu’s apologies. She explained that he had asked her to deliver the message to those attending.
Oburu health update: Doctors recommend rest
Ida said Oburu was feeling unwell, but reassured mourners that his condition was not serious. His doctors, she explained, had recommended that he slow down and avoid the loud gathering.
Her remarks addressed his absence as supporters assembled to remember Raila’s life and political legacy. However, her address also turned to the family’s grief over the past year.
Ida said the family suffered another bereavement just 40 days after Raila’s death. The two losses so close together, she explained, had made the period especially difficult.
She also urged those attending to respect the purpose and dignity of the commemoration. Ida appealed to anyone with other intentions to allow mourners space to remember Raila without disruption.
Ida describes life after Raila’s death
Reflecting on their relationship, Ida said she had known her husband for more than 50 years. Although a year had passed since his death, the loss still felt recent to her and other relatives.
She described sometimes leaving the door open in the evening, expecting him to arrive home late. Later, she would recognise that he would not return and close it.
The family also continued to listen for his footsteps and expect to see him in the morning. Those familiar expectations, she explained, remained part of adjusting to life without him.
Despite the grief, Ida credited Kenyans’ prayers and encouragement with helping her remain strong. She acknowledged support from Bondo, Nairobi, Kisumu, Homa Bay and Migori, alongside other areas and the diaspora.
Preserving Raila’s ideals through institutions
Ida also urged supporters to carry Raila’s ideals forward through institutions and initiatives bearing his name. She cited the Raila Odinga Centre for Democracy and the Raila Odinga Leadership Academy.
In addition, she highlighted schools and foundations taking shape in his honour as ways to preserve his legacy. Her appeal centred on giving his vision a lasting home beyond his lifetime.
Looking back on his political journey, Ida recalled the Azimio la Umoja convention at Kasarani on December 10, 2021. At that event, she had asked Kenyans to support Raila’s ambitions and his efforts to champion their interests.
