Raila Odinga: Winnie Odinga Recalls Her Father’s Final Moments in India: “He Died in My Arms, Strong and Proud”

During the State Funeral Service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium, Winnie Odinga delivered a heartfelt and emotional tribute that left the crowd in tears. She spoke with deep strength and pride, recounting her father’s final moments in India and the lessons he left behind for both his family and the nation.

“I was with him in India when he took his last breath. He died in my arms, but he did not die as people have been saying on social media,” Winnie shared. “Every day he was waking up and walking one round, then two rounds the next day. That morning, he pushed to five rounds. He died strong and with dignity and pride, and you must be proud of that.”

What Did Winnie Say About Raila Odinga’s Final Days?

Winnie described her father as more than a political giant. To her, he was a devoted dad and a superhero whose presence “froze rooms around the world.” She told mourners, “I don’t know who I’ll miss more… my dad or my superhero. I am the luckiest girl in the world because you were my dad.”

She painted an intimate picture of family life, recalling how their home served as “the vitendawili testing ground,” where Raila constantly challenged his children with riddles and trivia. Even in his final wishes, Winnie noted, his wit and humor remained intact.

“When I learnt that you willed to be buried in 72 hours, I laughed, ‘Good old Dad! Testing and planning for us beyond the grave!’ I can see you now, laughing in your heaving manner; knowing that your wish will be done,” she said as mourners chuckled through their tears.

How Did Winnie Describe Raila’s Legacy?

Winnie emphasized that her father’s legacy went far beyond politics. She said Raila taught herm and millions of Kenyans, that “love for country is not just in words, but in sacrifice; that justice must be pursued even when the path is lonely; and that true leadership is service not power.”

She encouraged Kenyans to hold their heads high and walk with the same pride her father embodied. “Millions of you are in despair, but take heart, because he left a plan for you too. He led all of us, he taught us, he carried us, we know what he expects from all of us and we shall rise together in his honour,” she said.

As she concluded, her voice trembled with emotion. “The biggest part of me died on October 15, 2025. But the spirit of the lion roars on forever. The King is dead, but long live the crown.”

By Modester Nasimiyu