Dr. Ida Odinga has penned a moving and emotional tribute to her late husband, Raila Odinga, following his passing. In a message shared on her official page, the former First Lady of Kenya expressed her deep sorrow and enduring love for the man she described as her “partner, confidant, and greatest supporter.”
Ida began her message with words that revealed the depth of her pain and loss:
“My dear, my heart is heavy as I write these words, my beloved. The news of your sudden passing feels like an ache that cannot be soothed. It’s a pain so deep, I find myself praying for strength, for courage, and for the peace that surpasses all understanding.”
She reflected on their more than five decades together, describing their union as one built on love, resilience, and unwavering hope. Ida spoke of how she had envisioned growing old with Raila, “sharing quiet sunsets and dreams fulfilled,” but now accepts that life’s plans are in the hands of a higher power.
“Still, I hold onto the memories of the life we built — full of love, resilience, and unwavering hope,” she wrote.
In her tribute, she celebrated Raila’s enduring legacy and character — a man of courage, forgiveness, and faith, who inspired not only his family but an entire nation.
“You taught me what true courage with humanity looks like. Through your actions and words, you showed us that forgiveness is a virtue worth cultivating, that bravery is rooted in facing storms head-on with unwavering faith.”
Ida Odinga described her late husband as a pillar of strength and a beacon of hope to countless Kenyans. She praised his unwavering dedication to justice, democracy, and the betterment of the nation, saying his legacy would forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched.
“Losing you feels like losing a pillar — a foundation of strength for us all. Your love wrapped us, protected us, and your unwavering commitment to Kenya was evident until your very last breath.”
She also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and solidarity from Kenyans and friends around the world, saying it reassured her that Raila’s spirit lives on in the hearts of many.
“The outpouring of love and solidarity from across Kenya and the world has overwhelmed me in the most humbling way. It reassures me that your spirit lives on in every heart you touched.”
In her closing words, Ida bid farewell to her husband with grace and faith, acknowledging his courage and lifelong love for Kenya.
“Farewell, my dear. You have run your race with honour, with courage, and with unwavering love for Kenya. May the Lord rest your soul in eternal peace. Until we meet again, know that you are forever in my heart.”
The tribute has touched many across the country, as Kenyans continue to mourn and celebrate the life of Raila Odinga a man whose dedication to justice and democracy shaped generations and whose love for Kenya will be remembered for years to come.
