- Ruth Odinga recalled a cherished memory of Raila’s reaction when he discovered she was born while he was in Germany
- She reflected on Raila’s generosity, including gifts like a black doll and an electric train, marking his affection for her during childhood
- The woman representative spoke about Raila’s strict yet loving mentorship, taking charge of her education and shaping her success in life
As the nation mourns the loss of former prime minister Raila Odinga, his sister, Ruth Odinga, has shared a heartfelt tribute that highlights their deep familial bond.
Source: Facebook
How did Ruth Odinga eulogise Raila?
In her emotional eulogy, Ruth recalled a touching and amusing memory of her brother’s reaction when he returned home from Germany and discovered that she had been born in his absence.
“When my brother came back from Germany, he found mum had just given birth to a baby girl. He was so amused because the gap between Osewe and the girl was more than six years. The next time he visited, he bought me a black doll. In the 60s, there was no black doll. This doll was the highlight of my childhood because every child in the neighbourhood wanted to play with it,” Ruth recalled.
Ruth Odinga recalls childhood memories with Raila
Ruth also fondly remembered Raila’s generosity, including another special gift—an electric train that he bought for her, something rare in Kisumu at the time.
His affection and unique gestures continued as he gave her a nickname that would stick with her throughout her life.
“He fondly used to call me ‘chok mama’ (last born), and he named me ‘Nyamama’.”
Ruth’s tribute painted a picture of Raila as not just a political icon but a loving brother and mentor.
She described how, despite her mischievous nature, Raila took charge of her education.
“Raila has always been my mentor. He used to carry me on his back while going to rallies, and the most significant was in Russia in 1969. I was a naughty girl, but Baba Fidel was my mentor and father. When I was being over-naughty, he decided to take up my education and brought me from Asumbi to Kenya High where he could monitor me since I was a cheeky girl,” Ruth recalled.
She went on to describe how Raila’s strict approach shaped her character, making her the strong woman she is today.
“He used to chase me around the corridors to make sure I passed, and when I did, he bought me my first Oris watch and platform shoes from African Boots company.”
Raila’s tough love and discipline were not only a foundation for her education but also for her success in life.
Ruth also reflected on the significant milestones in her life, many of which were supported by Raila.
“My brother Raila is a stickler for rules, and you dare not get late, even by 10 minutes. He was tough, and I take after him in toughness. This is evident in the way he made me the CEO of the biggest company in Kenya, and I performed. He also supported me in my first gubernatorial seat for Kisumu County. He named me the family doctor, ‘laktar mar odwa,’ and I’m glad to have been a ‘laktar’ on his final rest,” she said.
What you need to know about Raila’s death
Did Ruth Odinga cry at Raila’s homecoming?
The airplane carrying Raila’s remains landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 9:30 am local time, aboard Kenya Airways flight RAO001.
Ruth appeared moved as his body was unloaded from the plane.
Source: Facebook
She stood next to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who held her hand in a comforting gesture as they exited the aircraft.
Overcome with emotion, Ruth eventually broke into tears, shaking her head and whispering, as Mudavadi tried to console her.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
