Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga revealed that his younger brother, the late Raila Odinga, passed away on his birthday, adding a deeply personal layer to the State funeral held on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium.
Speaking during the ceremony, Oburu described his brother as more than just family, highlighting a bond built on shared ambition, loyalty, and lifelong companionship.
“My brother was more than a sibling to me; he was my blossom friend, my agemate, my confidant and my business partner,” he said. “He was, simply put, everything to me.”
The revelation brought profound emotion to a service already charged with grief. Born just over a year apart, the two brothers were not only family but also close political allies, navigating Kenya’s turbulent journey toward democracy together.
The funeral, officiated by the Anglican Church of Kenya, drew clergy, political leaders, and thousands of citizens from across the country. Rt. Rev. Prof. David Kodia, Bishop of Bondo Diocese, delivered the main sermon, portraying Raila as “a servant leader whose courage, forgiveness and humility reflected his faith.”
“Raila Odinga lived not just for himself but for the soul of this Republic,” Bishop Kodia told mourners. “His journey reminds us that death is not an end but a transformation into eternal glory.”
The Bishop also reflected on the significance of Oburu’s revelation, calling it “a profound reminder of divine purpose.”
“That his passing coincided with his brother’s birthday is no coincidence,” he said. “It is a divine symbol of shared destiny, of lives intertwined in service to family and nation.”
Oburu spoke with both pride and sorrow as he remembered Raila’s resilience, humor, and zest for life.
“He was fearless, in debate, in pursuit of his goals, and in the conviction of his beliefs,” he said. “Even in lighter moments, whether arguing about football or politics, he carried the same fire and belief.”
He added that Raila’s devotion to justice, democracy, and national unity would continue to inspire future generations. “He may be gone from sight, but never from my heart. His legacy lives on, in the love he gave, the lessons he taught and the example he set.”
The Bishop concluded the service with a prayer, commending Raila’s soul to God’s mercy.
“Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend the body of your servant, Raila Amolo Odinga. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,” he prayed.
As the nation approaches the burial on Sunday in Siaya County, thousands of Kenyans continue to pay their last respects, filing past the casket to honor the late former Prime Minister.