Sakaja, Orengo visit Raila’s grave in Bondo, pay tribute to his legacy

Governor Orengo said that the period after burial often carries the deepest grief

by EMMANUEL WANJALA

News21 October 2025 - 19:20

In Summary

The two governors visited Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where the ODM leader was laid to rest, in a show of solidarity with the family and close allies.
The visit came a day after retired President Uhuru Kenyatta visited the Odinga family at their Opoda Farm home and later paid his respects at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum.

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Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and his Siaya counterpart, James Orengo visit the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo to condole with the Odinga family, October 21, 2025. /JAMES ORENGO

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and his Siaya counterpart, James Orengo, on Tuesday visited the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo to condole with the Odinga family following his burial on Sunday.

The two governors visited Kang’o ka Jaramogi, where the ODM leader was laid to rest, in a show of solidarity with the family and close allies still mourning the veteran politician’s death.

Governor Orengo, who was accompanied by his wife, Betty Murungi, said the period after burial often carries the deepest grief and called for continued support to the bereaved family.

“Losing a loved one sinks even deeper after the burial; it’s in these quiet moments that the bereaved need our comfort the most,” Orengo said.

“Together with Betty, we took time to visit the Odinga family—Mama Ida Odinga, Dr Oburu Oginga, and Ruth Odinga. Raila Odinga was a mighty tree under whose shade many found shelter. His legacy will forever stand tall.”

Ruth Odinga, Raila’s sister, confirmed the visit, saying the family was deeply moved by the continued show of friendship and loyalty.

“Today, we welcomed Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Siaya Governor James Orengo, among other friends and relatives at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, as they came to commiserate with our family following the burial of our beloved statesman, Rt Hon Raila Amolo Odinga,” she said.

“We deeply appreciate true friends who continue to stand with us even after his passing. Their presence reminds us that friendship, loyalty and shared vision do not end with death, but live on through the values and dreams we built together. Asanteni sana for walking with us through this difficult chapter. We shall never forget.”

The visit came a day after retired President Uhuru Kenyatta visited the Odinga family at their Opoda Farm home and later paid his respects at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum.

Uhuru’s visit, marked by solemn reflection, set the tone for a series of condolence visits by political leaders and close associates who have been mourning Raila’s passing.

The former Head of State described Raila as a lifelong friend and compatriot whose contribution to Kenya’s democracy will remain indelible.

Raila Odinga, who died on October 15 in India while undergoing treatment, was laid to rest on October 19 at his ancestral home in Bondo after a state funeral attended by national and foreign dignitaries.

The revered opposition leader succumbed to cardiac arrest at the age of 80. He was accorded full military honours, a state funeral and was buried with his trademark hat and flywhisk.