Oburu Oginga has opened up about the deep shock he experienced upon discovering his late brother Raila Odinga’s wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
Speaking after receiving Raila’s body at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Oburu described the final moments they shared as ordinary yet full of hope.
He said there had been nothing to indicate that tragedy was near, and that the news of Raila’s passing left him completely heartbroken.
According to Oburu, he had spoken to Raila the night before his death, and they had made plans to meet in Dubai for what was meant to be a normal engagement.
Everything seemed fine during their conversation, and there was no sign of ill health or distress.
However, the following morning brought devastating news that his younger brother, who had been the face of opposition politics for decades, had passed away.
Oburu recalled that the moment was too painful to describe, as it shattered both his heart and the hopes of many Kenyans who looked up to Raila for leadership and guidance.
“It was a shock. We had plans to meet, and I never imagined that would be our last conversation,” he said.When he arrived at the airport to receive Raila’s remains, Oburu was taken aback by another development.
Members of the ODM National Executive Council had already held discussions on the future of the party and had mentioned him as a possible successor.
The suggestion, he admitted, came as a complete surprise during a time of mourning. For him, it was difficult to focus on anything beyond the loss of his brother.
Nonetheless, he appreciated the party’s efforts to ensure continuity and stability in the wake of Raila’s passing.
Oburu emphasized that ODM remains a strong and organized political movement built on clear systems and structures.
He assured supporters that there was no leadership vacuum and that those in charge were capable of keeping the party united.
In his words, Raila had built more than just a political vehicle he had established a movement rooted in the struggle for democracy and justice.
“ODM is not a one-man show. Raila built a strong institution, and those within it are capable of carrying his dream forward,” he said.
He further confirmed that the family would honor Raila’s wish to be buried within 72 hours, a decision that reflected his lifelong simplicity and discipline.
Oburu urged Kenyans to remain united as they mourned a leader who had dedicated his life to fighting for fairness, peace, and equality.
He said that while Raila may no longer be physically present, his ideals and spirit would continue to inspire generations to come.
