Winnie Odinga delivered an emotional and heartfelt tribute to her late father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, during his State funeral service at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Speaking before thousands of mourners, she recounted his final moments in India, describing him as a man who died with “strength, dignity, and pride.”
“I was with him in India when he took his last breath. He died in my arms,” Winnie said, her voice filled with emotion. “Every day he was waking up and walking one round, then two rounds the next day. That morning, he pushed to five rounds. He died strong, and you must be proud of that.”
She urged Kenyans to emulate her father’s resilience, saying, “Walk with your heads held high, strong and proud, because he left as a gentleman.”
Winnie reflected on her father’s life not just as a national icon, but as a loving parent who constantly challenged and inspired his family. “Our home was the vitendawili testing ground,” she recalled fondly. “To the world, he was a legend. To me, he was simply Dad — my superhero.”
Even in death, she noted, Raila’s characteristic wit and foresight shone through. “When I learnt that you willed to be buried in 72 hours, I laughed — good old Dad! Always planning, even beyond the grave,” she said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Winnie celebrated her father’s lifelong service to Kenya, saying he taught her and millions that true leadership means sacrifice, justice, and service to others.
She concluded with powerful words that left the crowd in tears: “The biggest part of me died on October 15, 2025. But the spirit of the lion roars on forever. The King is dead, but long live the crown.”
