Raila Odinga's nephew speaking during the funeral serviceMourners attending the funeral service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were moved to both tears and laughter as his nephew, Jaramogi Orango, delivered an emotional yet light-hearted tribute to the late statesman.
Taking to the podium with a trembling voice, Jaramogi Orango admitted he was nervous to speak before the large crowd gathered to honour his grandfather.
“If I knew I was to speak today, I would have taken something to boost my confidence,” he said.
“Natoa jasho ingine mbaya sana hapa juu. Ningejua nitaongea ningeuliza Uhuru (Kenyatta) anisaidie ile uji alikunywa na Raila.” Raila’s nephew Jaramogi Oranga said.
He then added humorously, “I would have asked former President Uhuru Kenyatta to help me with the uji (porridge) he used to drink with Raila, because I am sweating profusely here, but my mother is by my side.”
His remarks sent mourners into laughter, briefly easing the somber mood that had filled the event.
During Raila’s state funeral in Nairobi, former President Uhuru Kenyatta had earlier recalled fond moments of sharing chai (tea) and uji with Raila, describing him as a “brother” and “patriot” who remained steadfast in his beliefs and friendships.
Jaramogi went on to say that his grandfather inspired the young generation to be bold, visionary, and unafraid to fight for the Kenya they believe in.
“I will strive to live courageously like my grandfather, who lived a full life to 80 years,” he said.
The touching tribute from the young Orango added a personal
and heartfelt moment to the ceremony, capturing the warmth and humour that
characterised Raila’s life and family.
Former Prime Minister son Raila Odinga Junior mourned his late father as a steadfast Pan-Africanist and patriot who fought for the country's democracy.
He said Kenyans across the country and the world at large have mourned Raila since he died on October 15 while undergoing treatment in India. Raila Junior said they are celebrating the life of a man well lived.
"We are no longer mourning Jakom, but we are celebrating his life today as we give him a final send off," he said.
He thanked President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and the government for his massive support during Raila's final journey.
"We have received support from President Ruto and the government, which has enabled us to give our father a decent send-off befitting his stature," Raila Jr said.
He lauded the staff of Raila, who took good care of him throughout his political life and as a father to his children. On her part, Winnie Odinga appreciated Ruto for standing with the family during the death of her father.
"We honour you for the support and good work to our family. The King is gone; long live the crown," she said.
Winnie also thanked Raila's staff for their commitment in their work while serving the late premier. Rosemary euologised her father as loving, who took good care of his children.
She challenged Kenyans to emulate the good deed of Raila, who championed democracy and rights of Kenyans.
