Ida Odinga breaks silence on chaos at Raila anniversary event

By  Rushdie Oudia

Correspondent

Nation Media Group

The late Raila Odinga’s widow, Ida Odinga, has slammed politicians for turning her husband’s memorial into a supremacy battleground, even as she defended the family’s right to invite politicians from all formations, which they said was a key characteristic of the former Prime Minister.

In a statement, Ida regretted that a solemn remembrance of Raila Odinga had descended into a political show of might, chaos and heckling of some guests he had invited to the event.

According to Ida, parts of the memorial were disrupted by booing, shouting and acts of intimidation directed at some of her guests.

“I am particularly disappointed by the conduct of sections of the political class. Reports that individuals may have been paid and transported to the gathering for the purpose of heckling, intimidating or disrupting invited guests are deeply disturbing. Such actions represent a grave disrespect not only to our family, but also to Raila’s memory and to the thousands who came in peace,” said Ida.

She apologised to guests who were subjected to such treatment, saying they deserved to be received with courtesy, warmth and respect.

She pointed out that politicians have a special responsibility to exercise restraint, uphold order and ensure that their supporters respect the dignity of others, even where political differences exist.

“Our invitation was an assurance of welcome. No political disagreement entitled anyone to dishonour it. I shared more than fifty years of marriage with Raila. I knew a man who believed passionately in the freedom to differ, who challenged authority, who endured political persecution, and who nevertheless understood the importance of dialogue, reconciliation and the ability to sit together despite profound disagreements,” said Ida.

She stressed that those seeking to honour the former Prime Minister must also be prepared to uphold those values, adding that people should honour him not only through what they say about him, but also through how they treat one another.

She appealed to all political leaders and their supporters to respect the Odinga family, its guests and the sanctity of Raila’s resting place.

“Raila’s resting place must never become a battleground for political rivalries. Neither should our family’s grief be turned into an occasion for settling political scores. Raila belonged to his family, but he also belonged to Kenya, to Africa and to the many people whose lives he touched. His legacy is far greater than the political disagreements of the moment,” said Ida.

She defended the invitations extended to leaders and guests across the political divide following complaints from some guests that they could not share a podium with certain leaders they opposed.

“Throughout his life, Raila built friendships, encountered disagreements and found reconciliation with people across the political divide. Our invitations to the memorial reflected that lifetime of relationships. Every guest we invited was welcome. The Odinga family has no quarrel with any of them,” said Ms Odinga.

She, however, appreciated those who conveyed their condolences and goodwill but were unable to attend.

“An invitation to a family commemoration is an expression of fellowship, not a summons. Neither attendance nor absence should be interpreted as a disagreement with our family,” said Ms Odinga.

Ida also expressed gratitude to the many people from across Africa and beyond who stood with the family as it commemorated the first anniversary of Raila’s passing.

“To everyone who travelled to Bondo, prayed with us, sang, danced and shared their memories of Baba, thank you. Your presence brought comfort to our family and reminded us once again of the extraordinary bond Raila shared with the people of Kenya,” she said.

Her gratitude also extended to the Raila Amolo Odinga Memorial National Steering Committee, religious leaders, performers, volunteers, service providers and all those who worked tirelessly to make the commemoration possible.

Although President William Ruto was absent, Ida appreciated the support he accorded the family, particularly towards the construction and completion of Raila’s mausoleum. She said the support had gone a long way in helping preserve her husband’s memory with dignity.

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