He Died In My Arms, He Went With Pride and Dignity’: Winnie Odinga Eulogizes Her Father in a Moving Tribute

Nairobi, Kenya – Winnie Odinga, the youngest daughter of Kenya’s iconic opposition leader Raila Odinga, has shared a deeply emotional tribute to her father, recounting his final moments and countering misinformation circulating on social media about his death.

Raila, a towering figure in Kenyan politics and a former prime minister, died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in India. His passing has plunged the nation into mourning, with tributes pouring in from leaders and citizens alike, and chaotic scenes unfolding as thousands gathered to honor him.

In her heartfelt message posted on social media, Winnie described the intimate and profound experience of being by her father’s side as he took his last breath.

“Today, my world stands still. A giant has rested. I held his hand in his final moments, and in his silence, I felt the weight of his legacy and love. A father, a mentor, a compass. My heart is broken, but his light will forever guide me,” she wrote.

Speaking further at a memorial event, Winnie emphasized Raila’s resilience, noting that he remained active until the end.

“He died in my arms. Every day he was waking up and walking. Every day he would do one round, the next day he pushed to two rounds. That morning he pushed to five rounds. He died strong and with dignity and with pride. We must be proud of that,” she said, directly addressing and debunking rumors that suggested otherwise.

Winnie’s words have resonated widely, painting a picture of a man who faced his end with the same unyielding spirit that defined his decades-long fight for democracy and justice in Kenya.

She added, “I don’t know who I’ll miss more; my dad or my superhero. I’m the luckiest girl in the world,” highlighting the personal loss amid the national grief.

The family’s sorrow was palpable during the repatriation of Raila’s body. On October 16, Winnie was seen in a tearful exchange with her mother, Ida Odinga, gently handing over Raila’s favorite white fedora hat—the same one he wore on his final journey to India.

This quiet moment, captured amid the somber procession from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Lee Funeral Home, spoke volumes about love, loss, and continuity. Winnie, often described as her father’s shadow and fiercest ally, has been a visible pillar of strength for the family, accompanying Raila on political campaigns and trips.

Raila’s body arrived in Kenya early on October 16, escorted by a Kenyan delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

The arrival turned chaotic as thousands of mourners stormed the airport to pay their respects, leading to clashes with security forces.

Police fired tear gas and live bullets to disperse the crowds, resulting in at least four deaths and several injuries. Despite the violence, the procession proceeded under full military honors, reflecting Raila’s status as a national hero.

President William Ruto, a longtime political rival turned ally, led the nation’s response, declaring seven days of national mourning and announcing a state funeral.

In a televised address, Ruto praised Raila as “one of Kenya’s most influential leaders whose contribution to the country’s democracy will be remembered for generations.”

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki outlined the funeral program, noting the family’s request for a swift burial within 72 hours, in line with Raila’s wishes. The schedule includes public viewings at Parliament Buildings, a prayer service at Nyayo Stadium on October 17, and the final rites in Bondo on October 19.

Raila Odinga’s legacy spans over five decades of Kenyan politics.

The son of Kenya’s first vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, he was imprisoned multiple times for his pro-democracy activism under authoritarian regimes.

He served as prime minister from 2008 to 2013 in a power-sharing deal following disputed elections and ran for president five times, most recently in 2022.

Often called “Baba” by supporters, Raila was a champion of the marginalized and a key figure in Africa’s pan-Africanist movement.

As Kenya prepares to bid farewell, Winnie’s tribute serves as a reminder of the personal toll behind the public figure.

“The king is dead, but long live the crown,” she poignantly stated, signaling that Raila’s fight for justice endures through his family and followers.

The nation watches as a chapter closes on one of its most enduring political dynasties.