Winnie Odinga and her brother Raila Odinga Jnr during their father's funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, October 19, 2025. /PCS
East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga has hinted at returning to local politics following the death of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking briefly during Raila’s final funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya on Sunday, Winnie expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for standing with the family during their bereavement.
“Your Excellency, our people appreciate you honouring our father. Thank you for standing with us. You should also know, in case you are wondering, I’m ready to come back home,” she said, turning to face the President—making it clear the message was directed at him.
President Ruto, who was seated next to Mama Ida Odinga, was seen exchanging glances before bending slightly and smiling in response.
Raila had in recent months forged a working relationship with President Ruto through the broad-based government arrangement, ending years of political rivalry.
The President also played a key role in Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship, which he, however, lost in February.
Political observers have described Raila’s death as a political blow to Ruto, who had counted on the veteran opposition leader to steady his administration after last year’s Gen Z-led anti-government protests nearly paralysed the country.
Winnie also thanked leaders and citizens who have supported the family through the mourning period, saying she would return later to personally express her gratitude.
She concluded her remarks with her now-famous phrase: “The king is dead, but long live the crown,” raising her fist in the air before adding, “God bless the republic, God bless Baba’s legacy.”
Winnie Odinga’s regional legislative career kicked off in late 2022 when she was elected to represent Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
Her election by both the National Assembly and the Senate took place on 17 November 2022, and she was formally sworn in on 19 December 2022 in Arusha, Tanzania.
Her tenure extends for a standard five-year term, running through to December 19, 2027.
Winnie's election to EALA marked a significant step in her public/political career.
Following her father's death in India from cardiac arrest, she has been a symbol of strength not only to her family but the country at large, often appearing strong and focused even as family, friends and Raila supporters crumbled under the weight of overwhelming grief.
Some have touted her as a possible heir to Raila's political legacy even as they acknowledged that the gap the doyen of opposition politics has left behind is too big to be filled even by veteran politicians.
Raila will be buried later on Sunday at the family graveyard, Kang'o Kajaramogi, marking the end of a long-running political career.
