Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has offered heartfelt advice on what it takes to build a marriage that stands the test of time. Speaking at the farewell party for former Roads Cabinet Secretary Franklin Bett’s daughter in Kericho on Saturday, April 26, Raila emphasized that marriage thrives on partnership—not leadership.
“In marriage, there is no leadership. You are there as a partner,” Raila told the gathering. “It’s through mutual respect and teamwork that you build a family together.”
Drawing from his own life, Raila reflected on his marriage to Mama Ida Odinga, highlighting their journey as an example of lasting love and unity. He shared that two years ago, he and Ida celebrated their golden anniversary — an impressive 50 years of marriage.
“With all honesty, if I had the chance again, I would still say yes,” Raila declared warmly, a statement that earned him cheers from the crowd.
He noted that such enduring relationships are increasingly rare, pointing out that many people today often feel trapped in marriages they regret. “Some people say, ‘If I had known, I would not have gotten myself into this kind of trouble,’” he said, underlining how crucial it is to choose a partner wisely and nurture the relationship through partnership rather than dominance.
