Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday made a private visit to Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family home in Bondo, Siaya County, where he paid his final respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was laid to rest on Sunday.
In the solemn visit, Kenyatta was accompanied by Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila’s elder brother. The two stood quietly at the graveside, observing a moment of silence in honour of the late opposition leader.
Witnesses said the former Head of State appeared deeply reflective, his eyes fixed on the grave. At one point, Kenyatta raised his right hand toward the gravesite — a gesture that many interpreted as a silent farewell to his longtime ally and friend.
Uhuru’s Silent Tribute to a Political Ally
After a brief moment of prayer alongside Senator Oginga, Uhuru Kenyatta left the homestead without addressing the media.
A statement later released by his office confirmed that the former president had visited Bondo to “honour the memory of his longtime friend and compatriot.”
“President Kenyatta also visited the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum to pay tribute to the Odinga family’s enduring contribution to Kenya’s democracy and history,” read part of the statement.
The visit came just a day after Odinga’s burial, which was attended by top government officials, diplomats, and thousands of mourners.
Final Farewell to Raila Odinga
Raila Odinga was buried on Sunday afternoon beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his mother, Mary Ajuma, at the family compound in Bondo.
The private burial ceremony, which followed a national memorial service attended by senior leaders, featured state honours, including a 17-gun salute in recognition of Odinga’s decades of service to the nation.
Uhuru Kenyatta, who also attended the burial, laid a wreath at the gravesite and described the late leader as a “brother, friend, and patriot.”
“His commitment to Kenya’s unity, democracy, and justice will forever remain in our hearts,” Kenyatta said in an earlier statement.
Odinga’s Legacy Lives On
Raila Odinga’s passing last week in India — where he had reportedly collapsed — marked the end of an era in Kenyan politics.
Known for his resilience, reformist spirit, and advocacy for democratic ideals, Odinga shaped Kenya’s modern political landscape and inspired millions across the country.
Thousands have continued to visit his Bondo home to pay tribute to the man many affectionately called “Baba”, with national leaders describing him as one of the greatest statesmen of Kenya’s independence era.
