Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga has revealed heartbreaking details about the final hours of his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, saying that the ODM leader was in good health and high spirits shortly before his sudden death in India.
Speaking to journalists at his Karen residence on Wednesday night, Oburu recounted his last conversation with Raila, saying he was full of life and optimistic about returning home soon.
“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. Unfortunately, this morning he suffered shock, which is suspected after the postmortem to be a heart attack.”
Oburu, visibly emotional, said that Raila’s sudden passing had left the family deeply devastated. However, he urged Kenyans to focus not only on mourning but also on celebrating the extraordinary life of a man who dedicated over five decades to the fight for democracy, freedom, and justice.
“We are not just mourning, but we are also celebrating his life,” Oburu said. “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.”
Following Raila’s death, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced the formation of a National Committee for the State Funeral of Raila Odinga, which he will co-chair alongside Oburu Oginga.
The committee will oversee the arrangements for Raila’s final send-off and includes senior government officials, family members, ODM leaders, and members of Parliament.
Among those appointed to the committee are Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and SMEs), David Chirchir (Roads and Transport), Soipan Tuya (Defence), Aden Duale (Health), and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor.
Representing the family are Dr. Wenwa Akinyi Oginga, William Ojonyo, Elijah Oburu, and Dr. Joe Oger, while the Interior Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo, will serve as the committee’s secretary.
ODM Party governors Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Gladys Wanga, James Orengo, Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, and Simba Arati will also play key roles in the planning process. From Parliament, Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo and Senator Godfrey Osotsi will represent the Senate, while the National Assembly delegation includes Junet Mohamed, Millie Odhiambo, Dr. James Nyikal, Dr. Otiende Amollo, and Dr. Lilian Gogo.
According to the family, Raila’s body will arrive from India on Thursday morning and will be taken to Parliament Buildings for public viewing. His burial has been scheduled for Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
Just last week, Oburu had dismissed social media rumours suggesting that Raila was critically ill, assuring Kenyans that his brother was responding well to treatment. The ODM Party had also condemned what it termed “politically motivated propaganda,” reminding Kenyans that Raila had always been transparent about his health, referencing past public disclosures in 2010 and 2021.
Raila Amollo Odinga’s death marks the end of a monumental political era in Kenya’s history. A man who stood for justice, democracy, and unity, Raila’s influence cut across generations and communities. His courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in a better Kenya will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions.
As the nation prepares to lay him to rest, Kenya mourns not just a political leader — but a father, a freedom fighter, and a symbol of hope.
