The passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15 left a deep sense of loss among his family, friends, and supporters. Among those hit hardest was his elder brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, who has now shared the heartbreaking details of how he received the devastating news.
Speaking in an interview with NTV, Oburu revealed that he had spoken to Raila just hours before his passing — a conversation filled with warmth and optimism. The brothers, who shared a close bond, had even made plans to meet in Dubai for a short holiday.
“I did not expect him to go so abruptly. I thought that if it were to happen, it would follow a period of serious illness — not so suddenly,” Oburu said.
The Shock of Hearing the News
On the morning of October 15, as he prepared for a golfing session in Kisumu, Oburu received a distressing call from his sister Wenwa, who relayed that their sister Ruth, then in India with Raila, had informed her that he had collapsed and was in critical condition.
“I almost collapsed because it really shocked me. How could he collapse and be resuscitated in the ICU?” Oburu recalled.
Concerned about the language barrier between Raila’s family and the Indian doctors, Oburu contacted a doctor friend in India for clarification.
The friend confirmed that Raila was in a critical state but assured him that medics were doing everything possible to save his life.
Minutes later, Wenwa called again — this time sobbing — before Oburu managed to reach Ruth directly.
“I called Ruth, and before I could ask her anything, she just told me, ‘We have lost him.’ Then I called Winnie, and she said, ‘Uncle, we have lost the battle.’ That is when I almost collapsed. But I told myself I had to be strong as the head of the family — if I also broke down, what would happen to the others?” he said.
A Brotherly Bond Beyond Politics
Reflecting on their bond, Oburu spoke fondly of his late brother, describing him as generous and deeply caring.
The two often shared personal items, from clothes to shoes, since they were of similar build. Before his passing, they had even discussed how to manage the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga family estate to prevent future conflicts among relatives.
During Raila’s funeral last month, Oburu offered mourners a touching glimpse into the family’s childhood in Kisumu, recounting incidents that shaped Raila’s life and personality — including the origins of his famous facial scars.
The Story Behind Raila’s Facial Scars
“Raila fell from a mango tree while we were playing. I had to carry him on my back as people laughed at us. That’s how he got the scar on his mouth,” he recalled.
The mark on Raila’s forehead, he added, came years later during their time in Germany. Beyond the physical marks, Oburu described Raila as fearless and assertive from an early age — a natural leader unafraid to challenge authority, even their father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
A Tribute to Ida Odinga’s Strength
He concluded by commending the steadfast support Raila received from his wife, Ida Odinga, and family throughout his turbulent political journey, including his years of detention.
“Ida stood by him through everything — every arrest, every campaign, every hardship. She was his greatest strength,” Oburu said softly.
Through his recollections, Oburu painted a portrait of a brother not only remembered as a political giant but also as a devoted sibling, husband, and friend whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
By Geoffrey mbuthia
