Mama Ida Odinga has urged Kenyans to remain calm and united following the untimely death of her husband, former Prime Minister and ODM Party leader Raila Odinga. In her first public address since his passing, she expressed regret over the chaotic scenes witnessed at their Karen home as mourners gathered in large numbers to pay their respects.
“I am very sorry to all Kenyans; we did not expect it would be like this, but it has happened. Please remain calm,” Mama Ida said emotionally.
Raila’s death on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, has sent shockwaves across the country and beyond. The veteran opposition leader reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in India and was pronounced dead at 9:52 a.m. Indian time.
Moments after the tragic news broke, thousands of supporters and political leaders thronged the Odinga residence in Karen. Among them were President William Ruto, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris.
The situation at the Karen home turned tense as the growing crowd became difficult to control. At one point, anti-Ruto chants erupted, though it remains unclear whether the President was still present. Mama Ida and the Odinga family appeared visibly overwhelmed by the surge of mourners and the media presence.
Governor Wanga, who also serves as ODM’s national chairperson, was scheduled to address the media at 1 p.m., but the briefing was delayed due to the unrest.
President Ruto is expected to address the nation later this afternoon to formally convey his condolences and outline national arrangements for honoring Raila Odinga, one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
As the country comes to terms with the loss, Mama Ida’s heartfelt plea for peace and unity underscores the immense emotional toll and the need for restraint during this period of mourning.
