Royal Media Services (RMS) Chairman Dr. S.K. Macharia on Thursday visited the family of the late Raila Odinga at their Kang’o ka Jaramogi home in Siaya County to pay his respects to the former Prime Minister, who was laid to rest on Sunday.
Dr. Macharia, a long-time confidant of the Odinga family, began his visit by laying a wreath at Raila’s gravesite to honour the fallen Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader. He was accompanied by Siaya Governor James Orengo and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.
Afterward, the media mogul proceeded to the Odinga family’s Opada farm in Bondo, where he condoled with Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga.
“I came to pat Ida’s back on the loss of her husband, who was also my dear younger brother. We go back with Ida and Raila during Jaramogi’s time,” Dr. Macharia said, recalling his long-standing friendship with Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
He described Raila as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to Kenya’s democracy and freedom. “The true scope of what Raila gave to this country will be known in the years to come. He gave a lot,” Dr. Macharia said, assuring the family of his continued support.
Ida Odinga expressed gratitude for Macharia’s unwavering friendship over the decades. “He has been with us through very many journeys, and I thank him for standing with us. May God bless you abundantly,” she said.
Following Raila’s death while undergoing treatment in India, Dr. Macharia mourned him as “a family member, a great friend, and a patriot.” He praised his courage and resilience through years of detention and political struggle.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also visited the Odinga family earlier in the week to offer his condolences.
