Raila to be laid to rest next to his mother and father, Oburu confirms
By Paulette Mboga, October 16, 2025The late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, will be laid to rest beside his mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga, according to his elder brother, Oburu Oginga.
Speaking on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the family’s ancestral home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Oburu confirmed that Raila will be buried close to their mother as per his wishes. The decision reflects Raila’s long-standing desire to rest near the woman who greatly influenced his life and values.
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“…later on, Raila will be buried next to our mom and dad in a private burial, which will be attended only by a few people. I am pleading for peace, my people. Please be peaceful and welcome visitors,” Oburu said.
Burial venue
The burial will take place at the family’s homestead in Bondo, Siaya County, where preparations are already underway.
“In Mama Mary’s house, Oburu Oginga, who is the senator of Siaya, is the firstborn. Oburu is followed by Raila. Raila is followed by Omuodo Agolla Odinga,” said Matthew Otieno, the curator of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum, while speaking to the media on Thursday.
Otieno described the burial arrangement as symbolic of the deep bond within the Odinga family and their respect for tradition. Raila’s mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga, was the first wife of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
She was the matriarch of nine children, many of whom have since passed away, leaving behind a lasting mark on Kenya’s social and political history. Her role in shaping the Odinga household and nurturing a spirit of resilience has often been recognised by those close to the family.
As the country mourns Raila’s passing, attention has turned to the strong family foundation that influenced his leadership and commitment to justice. The final resting place, located near his mother’s grave, is expected to become a site of national reflection and remembrance.
At the homestead in Bondo, preparations continue with both local and international guests expected to attend. Among the mourners are national leaders, foreign dignitaries, and the surviving Odinga siblings, led by Oburu Oginga. The family’s enduring unity, despite loss and years of public life, remains a defining feature of the Odinga legacy. One that has shaped Kenya’s history for generations.
Preparations are already underway, with the nation expected to come to a standstill as Kenyans gather to bid farewell to the long-time opposition leader.