Ruth Odinga, the younger sister of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, delivered an emotional tribute during his farewell ceremony, describing her brother as a man who gave everything for his country.
With a trembling voice, Ruth recalled Raila’s lifelong sacrifices and resilience.
“My heart is heavy, my heart is in pain," she said.
She spoke of the immense struggles her brother endured in the fight for democracy and justice, often at the expense of his health and family.
“You have suffered for this country, and many could not see it. Go rest now, my brother. You have done your part.”
Ruth noted that Raila’s dedication to Kenya came with deep personal cost.
“Our family has suffered because he sacrificed himself for Kenya. He died still crying for the country,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion.
She described Raila as a strong man, one not easily shaken but said it was painful to see him lying lifeless after years of tireless struggle.
“Raila has suffered for the Kenyan people. It’s not easy to see someone as strong as him lying there,” Ruth added.
In her closing remarks, Ruth urged members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to honour Raila’s legacy by remaining united and strong.
“ODM must remain one. That’s what he stood for; unity, peace, and justice for all,” she said.
