Raila Odinga Junior, the son of the late ODM leader Raila Odinga, was seen holding his father’s well-known fly whisk and wearing Jaramogi’s special hat.
He wore these important items during the public viewing of his father’s body, which was lying in state at the August House.
In a tribute to the late Prime Minister on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium, he said he is ready to take on bigger responsibilities following his father’s demise.
“I am very alive to the fact that with my brother Fidel gone, I remain the gentleman of the family. Dad, I want to assure you that I will take care of our family, Mum, Rosie, Winnie, and the larger political family. Thank you for the gift of life, for giving me your name, and for never heaping the weight of it on me,” he said in his tribute.
“Nakuhakikishia kwamba nitatunza familia yetu …Asante kwa kunipa jina lako bila kunitwika jukumu la hilo jina,” he added.
Deep meaning
This was not a mere act of tribute; it was a highly symbolic gesture laden with political meaning.
The significance of this act is twofold. Firstly, the items themselves are the undisputed symbols of the Odinga political dynasty.
The fly whisk, or “orengo” in Luo dialect, was a constant feature in Raila Odinga’s public appearances, used to emphasise points, mourn the departed, and rally crowds.
It became synonymous with his authority and his connection to the people.
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s hat, worn by the family’s patriarch and Kenya’s first vice-president, represents the very roots of the family’s political legacy.
Raila Odinga’s political journey spanned over four decades. He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, led major opposition movements, and contested five presidential elections, often claiming his victories were stolen through manipulation.
Despite never ascending to the presidency, Raila’s legacy is firmly etched in Kenyan history for his unwavering advocacy for democracy, social justice, and national unity.
His moral courage, resilience, and lifelong dedication to the nation earned him respect across the political divide and admiration from multiple generations.
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, his body will be transported to Kisumu, on the shores of Lake Victoria, his political stronghold, before being moved to his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, for the burial.
