Ida Odinga, wife of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, thanked President William Ruto. She praised his quick actions. They helped bring Raila’s body back from India without delay. Raila, former ODM party leader, died there in October 2025.
Raila passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. He was under medical care in India. President Ruto’s government then managed the full state funeral. It wrapped up on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his Bondo home in Siaya County.
On January 7, 2026—Raila’s would-be 81st birthday—Ida expressed thanks. She appreciated all who helped the family honor him with a proper farewell.
She called it a sign of friendship from the president. The government’s support under his lead made a big difference. She noted his direct and fast steps. They allowed the family to move Baba’s body from India to Kenya quickly. They also met the burial timeline in his will.
Ida said it was hard to name everyone involved. Still, she highlighted key people. On behalf of the family, she thanked Kenya’s President, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto. She also thanked the full government team he rallied for Baba.
She gave thanks to India’s government too. She praised Prime Minister Rt. Honourable Narendra Modi. His personal help let Raila’s body leave India fast. This honored his friend’s wishes.
Ida also thanked top African leaders. They included former presidents H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo, H.E. Jakaya Kikwete. She added H.E. Akinwumi Adesina from the African Development Bank. Their support meant a lot.
The family thanked the medical team. Dr. David Oluoch-Olunya led it. Other key doctors were Dr. Martin Wanyoike, Dr. Eva Njenga, Dr. Robin Mogere, and Dr. Abdul Msaddi. Staff at hospitals in Kenya and India cared for Raila.
Ida urged ODM leaders to think hard about Raila’s vision. She asked them to stay true to his goals for the party and Kenya.
