Oburu Odinga, the older brother of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, on Sunday, revealed that his family opposed his controversial swearing-in as the “People’s president” in 2018.
Speaking at the 25th Memorial of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga at ACK St Stephen Cathedral in Kisumu, Oburu disclosed that his brother shocked the family when he decided to take the oath.
He stated that they were reluctant and feared for the worst possible outcome since the government had warned that anyone who participated in the ceremony would be charged with treason.
Nonetheless, he praised Raila for his bravery and act of courage stating that he was ready to die for the ideals in which he stood for.
Oburu added that Raila was the only politician in Kenya who could measure up to his father’s bold and courageous leadership style.
“My father was a daring politician. This act of bravery was inherited by Raila from our late father,” he declared.
Other leaders who were present at the Memorial included Devolution Cabinet secretary Eugen Wamalwa, Siaya Senator James Orengo, freedom fighter Githu Kaiheri, Ida Odinga, governors Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu) and Amoth Rasanga of Siaya.
In his address, Wamalwa urged all leaders to continue supporting the peace efforts by President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila.
On the other hand, Orengo remarked that the reason Jaramogi called for the release of Jomo Kenyatta was because he stood for fairness in the distribution of the national cake and equal treatment of every citizen.
Maseno South ACK Diocese Bishop Charles Onginjo unanimously called for more commitment to strengthening the new-found unity among opposition leaders and the ruling coalition as a way of honouring the late Jaramogi and realizing his dream for the country.
