Mama Ida Odinga has sparked widespread public debate after revealing a deeply personal detail that shocked her following the death of her husband, the late former Prime Minister and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Raila Amolo Odinga.
Speaking at her home in Bondo during a memorial service held in honour of the late opposition chief, Ida disclosed that she was surprised to learn that Raila had allegedly indicated in his will that he wished to be buried within 72 hours of his death. According to her, this information was new even to her, despite the many years they spent together as husband and wife.
Ida told mourners that she only came to learn of the 72-hour burial directive after Raila was pronounced dead, noting that she, like many Kenyans, relied on what was being communicated publicly at the time.
Her remarks, captured in a video that has since circulated widely online, have left many Kenyans questioning the authenticity and origin of the burial timeline.
“I was equally shocked,” Ida said, explaining that she had not been aware of such a wish beforehand. “I followed what was being said, just like everyone else.”
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Her comments have ignited mixed reactions on social media, with some Kenyans expressing sympathy and understanding, while others demanded clarity on whether the directive was genuinely captured in Raila Odinga’s will or whether it was a decision influenced by state considerations aimed at managing national grief and security concerns following his death.
Supporters of the Odinga family have urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during the mourning period, while critics have called for transparency to dispel speculation surrounding the handling of Raila’s burial arrangements.
Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenya’s political history, was mourned across the country and beyond, with leaders and citizens alike paying tribute to his decades-long fight for democracy and social justice.
As the nation continues to reflect on his legacy, Ida Odinga’s revelation has added a new layer to the public conversation surrounding his final wishes and farewell.
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