NAIROBI, Kenya— Ida Odinga has called on the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to uphold the values championed by the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, warning that internal divisions risk undermining the ideals he dedicated his life to defending.
Speaking on Wednesday, January 7, during a ceremony marking what would have been Raila’s 81st birthday, Mama Ida urged ODM leaders to reflect deeply on the party’s direction at a time of growing internal tension.
Her appeal came on the same day the Odinga family released an emotional public message thanking Kenyans and international leaders for the support shown following Raila’s death, describing the moment as both reflective and deeply painful.
“I want to end by appealing to those Raila left in the leadership of the party to reflect deeply and sincerely on his dreams for the party and for our country,” Ida said.
She challenged party officials to resolve disputes by returning to Raila’s guiding principles.
“Let us solve the problems of the party by always asking ourselves: What would Raila have done under these circumstances?” she added.
A moment of reflection and gratitude
In a statement published in local dailies on January 7, the Odinga family said Raila’s birthday offered an opportunity to acknowledge the overwhelming support they received from across Kenya and beyond during the mourning and burial period.
“The Odinga Family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us during this profoundly painful time following the passing of our beloved Baba,” the family said.
They singled out President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Chief Justice Martha Koome, and the entire government for what they described as outstanding support and compassion.
The family also thanked various funeral committees, national institutions, and citizens who ensured Raila received what they termed a dignified and fitting send-off.
Tributes from Kenya and beyond
The Odinga family extended special appreciation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for facilitating the swift repatriation of Raila’s body and according him full military honours at the time of his death in India.
They also acknowledged condolences and presence from former presidents Uhuru Kenyatta (Kenya), Olusegun Obasanjo (Nigeria), Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Jakaya Kikwete (Tanzania), and African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina.
According to the family, several leaders who were unable to attend the burial still sent emissaries, a gesture they said brought comfort during a difficult period.
They further thanked governors and county assemblies, specifically mentioning Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and Siaya Governor James Orengo, for facilitating logistics and transit arrangements.
ODM unity under scrutiny
Mama Ida’s remarks came against the backdrop of escalating tensions within ODM, marked by public exchanges between Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, raising questions about the party’s cohesion after the loss of its founding leader.
In her speech, Ida described ODM as one of Raila’s greatest passions, noting that he led the party with firm but fair leadership rooted in consultation, discipline, and fidelity to the people’s will.
She praised party staff and officials who served Raila faithfully throughout his political life and during his final journey.
In their message, the Odinga family also thanked the Kenya Defence Forces, Parliament leadership, and both Houses of Parliament for coordinating national events during the funeral period.
They extended special appreciation to the medical teams in both Kenya and India, naming doctors who attended to Raila in his final days.
“We cherish all the messages of support, love, and kindness. It brings us peace to know how deeply Baba touched the lives of many, here and beyond,” the family said.
