The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Mourners at the funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were moved to both tears and laughter when his nephew, Jaramogi Orango, delivered a heartfelt yet humorous tribute to the late leader.
Speaking with visible nervousness, Orango admitted he had not prepared to address such a large gathering.
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“If I knew I was going to speak today, I would have taken something to boost my confidence,” he said, drawing chuckles from the audience.
“Natoa jasho sana hapa juu. Ningejua nitaongea, ningeuliza Uhuru anisaidie ile uji alikunywa na Raila,” he joked, suggesting he would have asked former President Uhuru Kenyatta to share the porridge he and Raila used to drink together — a remark that sent the mourners into laughter.
His comment referenced Uhuru’s earlier eulogy in Nairobi, where he fondly remembered sharing tea and porridge with Raila, describing him as a “brother” and a “true patriot.”
Regaining composure, Orango paid tribute to his grandfather’s courage and legacy, saying Raila had inspired young people to be bold and visionary.
“I will strive to live courageously like my grandfather, who lived a full life of 80 years,” he said.
The young Odinga’s speech added warmth and humour to an otherwise somber ceremony, reflecting the spirit of love and resilience that defined Raila’s family.
Raila Odinga Junior also remembered his father as a Pan-Africanist and patriot who dedicated his life to democracy and justice, while Winnie and Rosemary Odinga thanked President William Ruto and the government for their support, urging Kenyans to carry forward Raila’s vision for a just and united nation.
