Winnie Odinga delivered a moving and deeply personal eulogy to her late father, former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, during his State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Speaking to thousands of mourners, Winnie recounted his final moments and reflected on the powerful lessons he imparted to his family and to Kenya.
A Dignified Farewell
“I was with him in India when he took his last breath. He died in my arms,” Winnie shared. “But he did not die as people have been saying on social media. Every day, he was walking — one round, then two, and on his last morning, five. He died strong, with dignity and pride, and you must be proud of that.”
She urged Kenyans to find inspiration in her father’s final days:
“You all must also walk with your heads held high, and walk strong and proud that he left as a gentleman.”
A Father, a Mentor, and a Superhero
Winnie described her father not only as a national hero but also as a devoted parent who filled their home with love, wisdom, and laughter.
“I don’t know who I’ll miss more — my dad or my superhero. I am the luckiest girl in the world because you were my dad,” she said, noting that her siblings, Fidel, Rosemary, and Junior, shared in that privilege.
She fondly recalled their family home as a “vitendawili testing ground,” where her father constantly challenged them with riddles and puzzles.
“To the world, you were known by many names, but to me, you were simply Dad — a man whose presence could freeze rooms around the world,” she said.
Remembering His Wit and Leadership
Winnie also spoke about her father’s sharp intellect and meticulous planning, which remained evident even in his final wishes.
“When I learnt that you willed to be buried within 72 hours, I laughed. ‘Good old Dad,’ I thought — testing and planning for us beyond the grave,” she said, drawing laughter and applause from the crowd.
Reflecting on his life of public service, she said Raila Odinga’s legacy was one of selflessness, courage, and deep love for Kenya.
“He taught us that love for country is not just in words but in sacrifice; that justice must be pursued even when the path is lonely; and that true leadership is service, not power.”
A Legacy of Hope and Strength
Winnie offered words of comfort to a grieving nation, assuring Kenyans that her father’s vision would live on.
“Millions of you are in despair, but take heart, because he left a plan for you too. He led us, he taught us, he carried us — and we shall rise together in his honour.”
She remembered him as a man who embodied grace, resilience, and forgiveness.
“He taught us that defeat is not failure, that conviction is not arrogance, and that peace is always greater than pride.”
Beyond his political life, she painted a portrait of a loving grandfather who delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, sharing stories, and listening to music.
“The biggest part of me died on October 15, 2025,” she said, her voice breaking. “But the spirit of the lion roars on forever.”
Winnie concluded her tribute with a line that captured the emotion of the day:
“The King is dead, but long live the crown.”
