Mama Ida Odinga, widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, has made a heartfelt appeal to Kenyans to uphold peace and unity as the country prepares to bid farewell to one of its most iconic leaders.
Speaking during the State Funeral held at Nyayo Stadium, Ida called on mourners to honour Raila’s legacy through calm reflection and collective dignity.
“I appeal to everyone — let us mourn Raila in peace,” she said, her voice filled with emotion as thousands gathered to pay their final respects.
Her message, though brief, resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom had travelled from across the country to attend the State Funeral.
She further stated that Raila was an advocate of peace who insisted on maintaining peace in the homes and also in the nation.
Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in Kerala, India.
His death has prompted a seven-day national mourning period, with flags flying at half-mast and a state funeral organised by the government.
President William Ruto declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday to allow Kenyans to participate in the farewell ceremonies.
Ida Odinga acknowledged the pain and grief felt by millions of Kenyans, but emphasised that Raila’s legacy must be honoured through peace.
“I know you are all mourning,” she said.
“But let us keep peace so that peace can prevail here and in the rest of the country.”
Her appeal came amid heightened emotions and large crowds at memorial venues, including Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium, where security teams have been deployed to manage the flow of mourners.
The Odinga family led tributes throughout the week, with Raila Odinga Junior sharing a personal video montage and other family members participating in prayer vigils and public addresses.
Mama Ida’s message has been widely shared on social media, with many Kenyans praising her strength and grace.
“Her words remind us that Raila’s legacy is not just political—it’s moral,” one user wrote.
Others described her as “the matriarch of peace,” echoing Raila’s own calls for unity throughout his career.
Raila Odinga will be laid to rest in Bondo, Siaya County, beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
As the nation mourns, Mama Ida’s voice stands as a guiding light—urging Kenyans to come together not in chaos, but in quiet strength.
Her call for peace echoes Raila’s lifelong commitment to dialogue, justice, and the dream of a united Kenya.
