- Oburu Oginga’s face was sad as he struggled to find words to praise his late brother, Raila Odinga
- The Siaya senator shared details of his last phone conversation with Raila, which took place hours before his death
- Oburu also called on Kenyans to continue to be respectful in this difficult period, mentioning that it is a time of mourning and celebration of Raila’s life
Oburu Oginga, elder brother of the late former prime minister Raila Odingahas broken the silence following his sudden death in India.
Source: Facebook
Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, October 15, Oburu addressed the nation while the funeral committee, led by him and the Deputy President Kithur Kindikisharing details about her brother’s final moments and plans for the upcoming funeral.
When was the last time Oburu Odinga was called by Raila?
The Siaya County senator reiterated his recent assurance to Kenyans that Raila was in good health while in India, where he was receiving medical treatment.
“As I informed you earlier, he was well and would return to the country soon. That was not a lie; it was the truth,” Oburu said.
He went on to explain the details of his last conversation with Raila on the night of Tuesday, October 14, a few hours before the politician’s sudden death.
“He was fine until last night. I spoke to him; he was cheerful, getting up and kicking. It’s just unfortunate that this morning, he suffered a seizure which, after the autopsy, is suspected to be a heart attack,” he explained.
The politician’s face was sad as he struggled to find words to honor his late brother.
“We are not only mourning, we are also celebrating the life of our great leader. I don’t have the strength to speak much at the moment, I just pray for our people to behave respectfully so that we can give my brother the dignified burial he deserves. I hope there will be peace and reflection at this time,” he said.
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What you need to know about the death of Raila Odinga
- President William Ruto announced that Raila Odinga will be given a national funeral.
- Information emerged later that the ceremony will be held at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, before his body is taken to his village home for the final burial, with the family deciding to be buried within 72 hours of his passing away abroad. However, the process will be accelerated.
- President Ruto also declared a seven-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast to honor Raila’s legacy.
- Several public figures, including the former president Uhuru Kenyattawrote emotional greetings, celebrating the late opposition leader’s contribution to leadership in Kenya.
Source: Twitter
When will Raila Odinga’s body arrive in Kenya?
In a case related to Raila’s death, TUKO.co.ke reported that a tape containing his remains emerged, leaving many emotional.
His body is expected to arrive in Nairobi within 24 hours, with the government delegation led by the Prime Minister Stay Mudavadi overseeing the repatriation process.
Raila’s last moments were spent with his close family members, including his daughter, who had accompanied him to India.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
