Ida Odinga Appeals for Calm Following the Death of Husband Raila Odinga
Ida Odinga has spoken to the nation following the death of her husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. In her first public address, she appealed for calm and apologized for the chaos that erupted at their Karen home. The residence was overwhelmed by a large crowd of mourners, including political leaders and distraught supporters.
“I am very sorry to all Kenyans; we did not expect it would be like this, but it has happened. Please remain calm,” Mama Ida stated. The situation at the home became tense, with media briefings being disrupted and anti-Ruto chants breaking out among some sections of the crowd. President William Ruto had been present earlier to offer his condolences.
Overwhelming Mourners and Political Tensions
The sheer volume of people who descended on the Karen home to pay their respects proved difficult to manage. Key ODM leaders, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, were in attendance. A scheduled press conference by Governor Wanga had to be postponed due to the unrest on the property.
Mama Ida attempted to address the situation directly but was overwhelmed by the crowd and media. The emotional scenes highlighted the profound national shock and the immense pressure on the Odinga family as they begin their period of mourning.
A Nation in Mourning
The former Prime Minister passed away on the morning of Wednesday, October 15, 2025. He suffered a cardiac arrest while taking a morning walk at an Ayurvedic hospital campus in India. He was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly thereafter. His passing has sent shockwaves across Kenya and the African continent.
In the wake of the tragedy, President William Ruto is expected to address the nation regarding the death of the veteran opposition leader. The government is anticipated to announce plans for a state-assisted funeral to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy as a central figure in Kenyan politics for decades.
