Winnie Odinga, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's younger daughter, has come out to express her willingness to work with the government.
In a cryptic message, Winnie noted that she was willing to "return home" and work with President William Ruto's administration as a continuation of his father's legacy.
Speaking on Sunday, October 19, during Raila's funeral service in Bondo, Siaya County, she expressed gratitude for the Head of State, commending him for making Raila's burial a success.
"Your Excellency, our people appreciate your honouring my father. Thank you for standing with us," she said. Adding, "You should also know, in case you are wondering, I am ready to return home."
Her comments drew applause from sections of the crowd, with some interpreting her words as a signal of her preparedness to work in the broad-based government.
While appreciating Ruto's administration, Raila's daughter also acknowledged the former Prime Minister's staff who came through for the deceased in his latter days before his demise.
Winnie currently serves as a Member of Parliament in the East African Legislative Assembly, following her nomination for the position by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
Meanwhile, Raila's sister, Ruth Odinga, who also spoke at the farewell ceremony, narrated Odinga's turbulence during the latter's early political life, particularly during former President Daniel Moi's regime.
She recalled how Raila was frustrated and detained by Moi's administration, adding that Raila's frequent harassment by the then regime forced him to flee to Norway as a refugee.
"Raila became a refugee in Norway, staying with me. I am saying this to show you that this was a strong man; the family has suffered. Mama Ida has suffered because imagine all those years living without your husband," Ruth narrated.
In her speech, Ruth revealed what Raila told him on the morning of his death regarding the ODM party. According to her, Odinga called for unity within the party.
"He told me ODM must remain united, it must be strong. ODM party belongs to all of us, not a few people who think they own the party," Raila's sister stated.
