NAIROBI, Kenya — Amid tears, applause, and deep emotion, Winnie Odinga, the youngest daughter of the former Prime Minister, late Raila Amolo Odinga, delivered a moving tribute to her father during his state funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, capturing the hearts of thousands of mourners across the nation.
Winnie spoke with remarkable poise as she revealed intimate details of her father’s final moments, dispelling rumours that had circulated online about his death.
“I was with him when he took his last breath,” she said. “He died in my arms — but not in the way people have been saying on social media. He passed away strong, with dignity and pride. You should be proud of that. Walk with your heads held high, for he left as a gentleman.”
Her words, filled with grace and quiet strength, drew a standing ovation from mourners who had gathered to honour the late statesman.
In a deeply personal reflection, Winnie paid tribute not just to a political icon, but to a father who, to her, was both a teacher and a superhero.
“I don’t know who I will miss more — my dad or my superhero,” she said. “To the world, you were known by many names: Aluo, Jaramogi’s son, Tinga, Agwambo, Nyundo, Jakom, Baba Fidel — but in the end, they called you Baba. To me, you were simply Dad.”
Her voice trembled as she spoke of the man behind the public image — one who taught her resilience, humility, and the value of serving others.
“He was my greatest teacher,” she added. “Even in his final moments, he was calm and courageous, as he had always been. That’s how he lived, and that’s how he left.”
The stadium fell silent as her words echoed through the air, and many mourners were seen wiping tears as chants of “Baba! Baba!” rippled through the stands.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest, is being remembered not only as a political titan but also as a father, mentor, and patriot whose legacy will live on through the generations he inspired.
Winnie’s heartfelt tribute reminded Kenyans that behind the legend of Agwambo stood a man of warmth, courage, and love — one whose final act, even in death, reflected the dignity and grace that defined his life.
