A deeply touching photo of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga tenderly embracing his mother, Mary Ajuma Odinga, has gone viral online, stirring emotions across Kenya and beyond.
The rare image, now trending on social media, captures an intimate moment between Raila and the woman who profoundly shaped his early life and values.
Mary Ajuma passed away on November 5, 1984, while Raila was detained without trial during the Moi regime. In a tragic twist, he was not informed of her passing until two months later — a revelation he once described as one of the most painful experiences of his life.
Despite the deep personal loss, Raila later chose forgiveness over bitterness, reconciling with former President Daniel arap Moi and even supporting him politically years later — a testament to his remarkable resilience and spirit of reconciliation.
In his final wishes, Raila requested to be buried beside his mother within 72 hours of his passing, symbolizing their unbreakable bond even in death.
His burial, scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, will honor that wish — bringing to a close a life defined by sacrifice, endurance, and unwavering love for family and country.
