Mama Ida Odinga, the wife of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has spoken publicly for the first time following her husband’s sudden death in India.
While addressing mourners and supporters gathered outside their Karen home in Nairobi, Ida expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over the passing of her husband, describing it as an unexpected tragedy.
“Poleni sana, najua wote mmeshtuka. Hatukutegemea ingekuwa hivi, lakini imeshafanyika,” she said before retreating back into the house.
The statement, loosely translated to English, reads:
“I’m very sorry. I know you’re all shocked — we didn’t expect it to happen this way, but it has already happened.”
ODM Leaders and National Figures Visit the Odinga Family
Ida Odinga was flanked by several ODM party leaders who had gathered at the Karen residence to console the family.
President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki were among the first national leaders to visit the home and offer their condolences.
Details of Raila Odinga’s Final Moments
Raila Odinga, who had been in India for two weeks seeking Ayurvedic treatment, collapsed during a morning walk on Wednesday, October 15, within the premises of the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala’s Ernakulam district.
According to reports, medical personnel on-site administered CPR, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. He was rushed to Devamatha Hospital in Koothattukulam, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. Indian time (7:23 a.m. Nairobi time).
A hospital spokesperson confirmed the passing.
“He was brought in unresponsive, and despite our best efforts, we could not revive him.”
The former Prime Minister was 80 years old at the time of his death.
Nation in Mourning
News of Raila Odinga’s passing has sent shockwaves across the country, with tributes pouring in from leaders, supporters, and international allies. Kenyans have gathered in various towns to mourn the veteran politician, whose influence spanned decades of the country’s democratic struggle.
Government officials have indicated that national funeral arrangements will be coordinated in consultation with the Odinga family.
