Oburu Oginga Recounts the Heartbreaking Moment He Learned of His Brother Raila Odinga’s Death

The death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga on October 15 sent shockwaves across Kenya and beyond, leaving a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and supporters. Among those most profoundly affected was his elder brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, who has now opened up about the painful moment he received the devastating news.

Speaking in an interview with NTV, Oburu revealed that he had spoken to Raila just hours before his passing — a conversation he described as warm, light-hearted, and full of optimism. The brothers had even been making plans for a short holiday together in Dubai.

“I did not expect him to go so abruptly,” Oburu said. “I thought that if it were to happen, it would follow a period of serious illness — not so suddenly.”

The Call That Changed Everything

On the morning of October 15, as Oburu prepared for a round of golf in Kisumu, he received a distressing call from his sister Wenwa, who relayed alarming news from their sister Ruth, who was in India with Raila at the time.

“She told me Raila had collapsed and was in critical condition. I almost collapsed myself. It really shocked me — how could he just collapse and end up in the ICU?” Oburu recounted.

Worried about possible communication barriers between the family and the Indian medical team, Oburu reached out to a doctor friend in India, who confirmed Raila’s condition was critical but assured him that doctors were doing all they could to save his life.

Moments later, Wenwa called again — this time in tears. Before Oburu could process her words, he managed to reach Ruth directly.

“I called Ruth, and before I could say anything, she told me, ‘We have lost him.’ Then I called Winnie, and she said, ‘Uncle, we have lost the battle.’ That is when I almost collapsed. But I reminded myself that I had to be strong as the head of the family — if I broke down, what would happen to the others?”

A Bond Beyond Politics

Oburu spoke tenderly of his late brother, describing their relationship as deeply personal and affectionate, far beyond the political world Raila was known for.

The two shared a unique closeness — even exchanging personal items like clothes and shoes, given their similar build. Before his death, they had discussed how to manage their late father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s estate to ensure peace and unity within the family.

During Raila’s funeral last month, Oburu moved mourners with intimate childhood recollections that revealed a side of Raila rarely seen by the public.

The Story Behind Raila’s Famous Scars

Oburu recalled one particular incident from their youth in Kisumu that left a lasting mark — both literally and figuratively.

“Raila fell from a mango tree while we were playing. I carried him home on my back as people laughed at us. That’s how he got the scar on his mouth,” he said.

Another scar, Oburu explained, came years later while they were studying in Germany. Despite these injuries, he said, Raila remained fearless and determined — traits that defined him throughout his life.

“He was assertive even as a child — always ready to challenge authority, even our father. Leadership was in his nature.”

Honouring Ida Odinga’s Enduring Strength

In a poignant tribute, Oburu praised Ida Odinga, Raila’s wife, for her unwavering support throughout her husband’s turbulent political journey.

“Ida stood by him through everything — every arrest, every campaign, every hardship. She was his greatest strength,” Oburu said softly.