- ODM leader Oburu Oginga has remembered his late brother Raila Odinga with the message as Kenya marks the first anniversary of his death
- Oburu shared the same portrait of Raila posted by President William Ruto, paying tribute as political leaders and Kenyans commemorate the former prime minister
- The Siaya senator is expected to miss the anniversary memorial in Bondo because he is still recovering
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga has paid an emotional tribute to his late brother Raila Odinga as Kenya marks one year since the former prime minister’s death.
Source: Facebook
Oburu shared a portrait of Raila on social media on Wednesday, October 15, accompanied by the poignant words, “So long, my brother.”
The image was the same portrait shared by President William Ruto as he joined Kenyans in remembering the veteran opposition leader, who died in India on October 15, 2025, aged 80.
Oburu’s message comes amid continued public concern over his health and his absence from events organised to commemorate Raila’s first death anniversary.
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Why Oburu Oginga will miss Raila’s anniversary memorial
Oburu, who also serves as the Siaya senator, has been unable to attend recent events honouring his younger brother as he continues to recuperate.
His absence from the candle-lighting ceremony held at the Odinga family home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Bondo, on Tuesday, October 14, was explained by his sister, Akinyi Wenwa.
TUKO.co.ke earlier reported that Akinyi apologised on behalf of Oburu, explaining that he had not yet received a clean bill of health from his doctor.
The family’s explanation followed Oburu’s absence from the October 7 ceremony at which Ruto officially handed over and dedicated Raila’s mausoleum in Bondo.
During that event, the ODM leader’s son, Jaoko Oburu, delivered a message on his father’s behalf, explaining that he was observing strict medical instructions to rest and limit physical engagements.
In an earlier statement, Oburu’s secretariat maintained that he was alive, safe and in good spirits, dismissing reports circulating on social media claiming that he had died. The office said he remained mentally alert and engaged in party and national affairs despite being advised by his doctors to rest.
Raila’s first death anniversary is being marked through commemorative activities under the ODM-led Mwezi wa Baba programme, culminating in a memorial gathering in Bondo, Siaya County.
Source: TUKO.co.ke