Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga moved mourners at Nyayo National Stadium with a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, painting a picture of a disciplined, brilliant, and compassionate man whose greatness began long before politics.
Speaking before a crowd filled with dignitaries and foreign guests, Oburu shared intimate memories of their early years, revealing that Raila was not only a sharp student but also a talented cook.
“He was a good cook. And he was always number one in class,” Oburu said, his voice filled with emotion. “He was more than a brother he was my advisor and confidant.”
In a deeply personal revelation, Oburu recalled the painful coincidence of Raila’s passing on his own birthday, October 15. The moment drew silence from the audience, underscoring the deep bond between the two brothers.
Reflecting on their upbringing under their parents, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Odinga, Oburu described their mother as a strict disciplinarian. “Our grandmother told us, ‘You my boys are also my girls,’” he said, recalling how they learned to cook, fetch firewood, and wash clothes skills in which Raila excelled.
The Senator also reminisced about Raila’s athletic side. “He used to triple jump, play football, and do pole vault,” he shared, joking that he himself was better in jumping and pole vault, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Oburu fondly remembered Raila’s early passion for justice and current affairs. “One day, he was late to school because he wanted to hear the news on the radio. He was only in Standard Four,” he said.
“Raila was a no-nonsense man,” Oburu concluded. “He despised lies and mediocrity his left hand was quick to remind you to always be truthful.”
Through laughter and tears, Oburu’s tribute revealed the human side of a man revered for his leadership, courage, and lifelong pursuit of justice.
