A touching throwback photo of the late Raila Odinga surrounded by his family has resurfaced online, stirring emotions among Kenyans just as the country approaches the first anniversary of his death.
The photo, shared on TikTok by @kingkennon, appears to have been taken at the Odinga family home in Kileleshwa during what the caption described as a family reunion.
In it, a noticeably younger Raila stands beside his eldest brother, Oburu Oginga, while his wife Ida Odinga holds their youngest child, Winnie Odinga, in her arms. Raila Junior is also visible in the frame.
The Odinga family through the years
The image offers a rare and intimate window into the private life of one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
Raila, who dedicated decades to the country’s democratic struggle, is seen in a relaxed, family setting far removed from the political battlegrounds he became famous for.
Sharp-eyed fans were quick to note that one family member was missing from the photograph. Raila’s eldest son, the late Fidel Odinga, does not appear in the picture.
One commenter offered a light-hearted explanation, suggesting Fidel may have been away at boarding school on the day the photo was taken.
The post drew a wave of nostalgic and emotional reactions from Kenyans who continue to hold Baba in high regard.
Here are some of the comments from social media users:
@jiana jee wrote:
“Nimeona Junior.”
@LynCecy noted:
“Haki Wakenya, Fidel alikuwa shuleni boarding siku yenye mpiga picha alikuja home.”
@user8746107848761 asked:
“Yaaani huyo ameshikwa hapo ndio Winnie ama?”
@sine reflected:
“Raila went through a lot… He is the reason we have this freedom. Rest in peace Baba.”
@Rozzi salon simply wrote:
“Baba alikuwa mali safi sana.”
@Kenmusa added:
“Whoever made Rao not to rule Kenya, God and history will never forgive him/her.”
@Pending Billionaire 🫅 GBKE quipped:
“When I was still alive 🤩🤩.”
@GMan pointed out:
“Rosemary is a true daddy’s girl.”
@tyichah confirmed:
“Fidel is not in this photo.”
The photo is a poignant reminder of the man behind the political giant. As Kenya approaches the first anniversary of Raila’s passing, the image has clearly struck a chord, with many Kenyans flooding the comments section with messages of love, respect and fond remembrance.
