First Daughter Charlene Ruto has opened up about how deeply she was affected by the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. During an emotional visit to his gravesite in Bondo, Siaya County, Charlene described the loss as “heartbreaking” and “hard to believe.”
Charlene Visits Raila’s Resting Place in Bondo
Charlene, the daughter of President William Ruto, was seen comforting Mama Ida Odinga and other family members during the visit. She laid flowers on Raila’s grave before touring the Kang’o Ka Jaramogi mausoleum, where she also paid respects to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Fidel Odinga.
Remembering the Day of Raila’s Passing
Speaking at the gravesite, Charlene said she was shocked to learn about Raila’s passing on October 15 while attending an expo in Kakamega. She noted that the event was later cancelled following President Ruto’s declaration of seven days of national mourning. Although she could not attend the burial, Charlene said she had vowed to personally visit Bondo to pay her respects.
“Today, I condoled with the Odinga family as I visited the grave of the late Hon. Raila Odinga. Various mourners were also present, paying their last respects, and we shared in the moment together as I reflected on my encounters with Baba before he passed on,” she shared.
Honoring a Political and Cultural Legacy
During the visit, Raila Odinga Jr. gave Charlene a guided tour of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Museum, where he explained ongoing efforts to digitize the family’s historical archives and preserve Luo cultural heritage. The tour included visits to the graves of Jaramogi and Fidel, emphasizing the Odinga family’s enduring political and historical legacy.
Shared Memories with Mama Ida Odinga
Charlene later spent time with Mama Ida Odinga at their Opoda Farm, where the two reflected on their shared experiences at Moi Girls’ Eldoret. The First Daughter expressed admiration for Mama Ida’s resilience and discussed ways to continue empowering young women across Kenya.
“Mama Ida warmly received me, and we shared lighter moments as we remembered our school days and talked about how to support young women,” Charlene said. “My prayers remain with the Odinga family as they mourn the loss of their loved one. May the soul of the late Hon. Raila Odinga rest in eternal peace.”
Tributes Continue from Across the Nation
Elsewhere, Raila’s son Junior requested that George Ruto’s matatu, nicknamed Mood, visit Bondo to pay tribute to the late statesman. The vehicle had been decorated with Raila’s portrait as a mark of respect following his death.
