ODM leader Oburu Odinga has explained why his late sister, Beryl Odinga, will be buried at the family home in Kango Ka Jaramogi, saying the decision balances respect for Luo traditions with the realities of modern life.
The announcement sparked debate within the community, as Luo customs typically require an unmarried woman to be buried outside the main compound, while a married woman is traditionally interred at her husband’s home.
Oburu acknowledged these customs but said the family would still follow all other traditional burial rites.
“We know our traditions, and we respect them. Our sister will be buried with her head facing the gate, as our culture requires,” he said.
He clarified that the only deviation is the burial site, which will be at the family’s designated gravesite identified by their late father for all members of the family.
“The world has changed, and land is no longer what it used to be. Our father showed us where every member of the family should be buried. We are simply following that guidance,” Oburu said.
He emphasised that while Luo burial customs remain important, families must also apply wisdom and adapt when circumstances evolve.
“We are not abandoning our culture, and we are not throwing away our sisters,” he said. “We are honouring her and honouring the instructions given to us by our father.”
Oburu urged community elders to understand the family’s position, insisting the decision was made out of respect rather than defiance.
“If this seems to go against what has been done traditionally, we ask for your understanding. Times have changed, and we must balance tradition with present-day realities,” he said.
The decision has stirred debate, with some Luo community members viewing it as a practical modern interpretation of culture, while others feel it departs from long-standing customs.
