Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has said his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, was in good health until just hours before his sudden death in India.
Speaking to journalists at his Karen residence on Wednesday night, Oburu said he personally spoke with Raila on Tuesday evening and that the ODM leader appeared energetic and optimistic.
“I informed you before that he was well and kicking about and that he would be back in the country. That was not a lie; it was the truth,” Oburu said. “He was very well until last night, I spoke to him. He was vibrant, up and kicking. It is very unfortunate that this morning he suffered shock, which is suspected after the postmortem to be a heart attack.”
The senator expressed profound sorrow over the passing of his younger brother but urged Kenyans to celebrate Raila’s legacy with decorum.
“We are not just mourning, but we are also celebrating his life. I am only praying that our people behave in a dignified manner and let us give my brother a dignified burial and a good send-off that he deserves,” he added.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki later announced the formation of the National Committee for the State Funeral of Raila Odinga, which he will co-chair alongside Oburu Oginga.
The committee includes Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and SMEs), David Chirchir (Roads and Transport), Soipan Tuya (Defence), Aden Duale (Health), and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor.
Family representatives will include Dr. Wenwa Akinyi Oginga, William Ojonyo, Elijah Oburu, and Dr. Joe Oger, while the ODM Party will be represented by Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, and Kisii Governor Simba Arati.
From Parliament, Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo and Senator Godfrey Osotsi will represent the Senate, while the National Assembly delegation will include Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, Dr. James Nyikal, Dr. Otiende Amollo, and Dr. Lilian Gogo.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo will serve as secretary to the committee.
The family announced that Raila’s body will arrive from India on Thursday for public viewing before burial on Sunday.
Last week, Oburu had dismissed rumours about Raila’s health, confirming that the ODM leader was receiving treatment in India and recovering well.
The ODM Party also denounced reports claiming Raila was gravely ill, calling them propaganda intended to sow panic and discredit President William Ruto’s government.
The party noted that Raila had always been transparent about his health in the past, citing his open statements during illnesses in 2010 and 2021, and accused some opposition leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, of exploiting the rumours for political gain.
Raila’s sudden passing marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, with the nation now preparing to bid farewell to one of its most influential and enduring leaders.
Source: Citizen Digital
Written By Rodney Mbua
