Winnie Odinga breaks down: ‘They wrote me a speech, but today I have nothing to say’
Winnie Odinga was overcome with emotion as she stood to speak during the burial of her father, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo.
Her voice was heavy with grief as she said, “They wrote me a speech, but today I have nothing to say. All the leaders we visited around the world, I will go back to say thank you. The king is dead, but long live the crown.”
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Also watch: Raila Odinga’s funeral service and burial in Bondo
Her words captured the pain and pride of a daughter bidding farewell to a father who was also a national icon. Winnie’s brief remarks came on the day Kenya laid to rest one of its most influential leaders. It was a moment filled with emotion as she struggled to hold back tears, showing the nation a rare glimpse of her heartbreak.
A daughter’s pain
In an earlier tribute shared on October 16, 2025, Winnie had expressed her deep sorrow and love for her father. She revealed that she was by his side in his final moments, holding his hand as he took his last breath.
“Today, my world stands still. A giant has rested. I held his hand in his final moments, and in his silence, I felt the weight of his legacy and love. A father, a mentor, a compass. My heart is broken, but his light will forever guide me,” she wrote.
Also watch: Nation mourns as Raila’s final journey reaches Bondo
Winnie was part of the small team that had accompanied Raila to India, where he was undergoing treatment before his death.
Together with his bodyguard, Maurice, she remained by his side through his final days. Those who know her say she has been a symbol of strength throughout the mourning period, but on this day, the pain was too deep to hide.
Over the years, Winnie had grown into one of her father’s closest allies and fiercest defenders. Raila Junior even referred to her as their dad’s best friend.
She often accompanied him to political rallies, international meetings, and diplomatic visits. Their bond went beyond politics. It is like they had a partnership rooted in trust, mentorship, and mutual admiration.
