I’m Ready To Return Home: Winnie Odinga Hints at Joining Local Politics After Raila’s Death

East African Legislative Assembly Member of Parliament Winnie Odinga has hinted that she may soon return to local politics following the death of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.

Speaking during Raila’s final funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya, Winnie’s short but deliberate remarks appeared to signal the beginning of a new political chapter.

Addressing President William Ruto before thousands of mourners and dignitaries, Winnie said, “Your Excellency, our people appreciate you honouring our father. Thank you for standing with us. You should also know, in case you are wondering, I’m ready to come back home.”

The crowd responded with applause as the President, seated beside Mama Ida Odinga, exchanged a brief glance before smiling, a gesture that did not go unnoticed by those present.

Her words, though few, carried the weight of a political inheritance that has defined Kenya’s modern history.

For many listening, this was not just a daughter speaking to a head of state, but an heir to a legacy hinting at her readiness to step into a national role.

Raila’s death has left a vast political vacuum, particularly in Nyanza where his influence shaped the region’s identity for more than four decades.

Winnie Odinga and her brother Raila Odinga Jnr during their father’s funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, October 19, 2025. /PCS

Winnie’s public acknowledgment of her intent to “come back home” instantly drew speculation that she may soon seek elective office locally.

Raila’s passing in India after a cardiac arrest has altered the country’s political rhythm.

His relationship with President Ruto in recent months had signaled a surprising détente between two longtime rivals.

The President had even championed Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship, a move that earned him rare goodwill from opposition supporters before the attempt failed earlier this year.

Analysts now say that without Raila’s balancing influence, the political understanding between Ruto and Odinga’s camp may begin to fray.

Winnie’s remarks, therefore, were not just personal but symbolic of a political transition taking shape.

“Her tone was assertive but respectful,” said Professor Adams Oloo, a political analyst. “That line about being ready to come back home was both emotional and strategic. It was a declaration that she intends to keep the Odinga name active in Kenyan politics.”

Throughout the mourning period, Winnie has embodied the resilience and discipline for which her father was known.

Her composure during public appearances has drawn admiration even from those outside her father’s political base.

Many Kenyans have described her as the face of continuity, a young leader inheriting not only a famous name but also a nation’s expectations.

She ended her speech with a now familiar phrase that has echoed across social media since Raila’s passing: “The king is dead, but long live the crown.” She then raised her fist and added, “God bless the republic, God bless Baba’s legacy.” The crowd rose to its feet, cheering as if pledging allegiance to a legacy that refuses to fade.

Winnie’s political journey began in earnest in 2022 when she was elected to represent Kenya at the East African Legislative Assembly.

Her election was seen as a strategic move, allowing her to gain experience within regional politics while avoiding the chaos of local campaigns.

She has served in Arusha with quiet determination, building networks and gaining a broader understanding of governance within the East African Community. Her five-year term is set to end in December 2027, but her words in Bondo suggest she might not wait that long before stepping into the Kenyan political field.

As Raila Odinga is laid to rest at the family home in Kang’o Kajaramogi, the moment feels like both an ending and a beginning.

The chapter of a political giant closes, but another story seems to be emerging in the same household. For many mourners, the symbolism was impossible to ignore.

The torch that illuminated Kenya’s struggles for democracy and justice for over half a century may soon be carried forward by his daughter.

In the stillness of Bondo, as the sun set over Lake Victoria, chants of “Baba’s spirit lives on” filled the air.

Whether Winnie Odinga will choose to formally enter the political arena remains to be seen, but on this day, before the eyes of the nation, she made it clear that she is ready to return home.