Ida Odinga has urged Kenyans to maintain peace and dignity as they continue to mourn the passing of her husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Addressing the media at her Opoda Farm residence in Bondo on Saturday, Ida said the mourning period should be marked with order and respect, describing it as a time to honour Raila’s memory through unity and reflection rather than disorder.
“This is a solemn occasion. It is not a time for confusion. Things work better when we do them calmly and respectfully,” she said. “Now, I want to appeal to our people: we must mourn Raila in peace.”
She recalled attending major international funerals, including those of Nelson Mandela and the late Tanzanian President, and noted that such ceremonies were conducted with great calm and respect.
“They were solemn occasions. It is only through a still voice that we can truly hear and understand one another,” she added.
Ida acknowledged the deep grief facing the family and the nation, saying the loss of Raila was both painful and unexpected.
“None of us knew that the time had come for my dear husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, to leave us. But since that time has come, we must face it as it is,” she said, adding that the best way to honour him is to uphold the peace he championed throughout his life.
Idah expressed appreciation for the outpouring of love and condolence messages received from across Kenya, Africa, and beyond.
“I know Raila was loved by his people, his family, his community, his party members, Kenyans, Africa, and even many parts of the world. I have received condolence messages from many corners of the world, and tomorrow I hope I will be able to read some of them to you,” she said.
Mama Ida made an emotional return to their rural home in Opoda Farm for the first time since Raila’s death was announced earlier this week.
Dressed in black and accompanied by her daughter Winnie Odinga and other family members, she was received by mourners who had gathered in the compound to pay their respects.
Meanwhile, preparations continue in Kisumu where Raila’s body lies in state at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo.
Thousands have turned up for public viewing before the body is airlifted to Bondo for a night vigil ahead of Sunday’s burial. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed that the transfer will be by air and not by road as previously planned.