A Love Forged in the Crucible of Politics

In a poignant tribute during the State funeral service for her late husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Mama Ida Odinga declared that given the chance, she would marry him again. Her remarks, delivered on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo, Siaya County, underscored a 52-year marriage marked by both deep affection and the demanding realities of Kenyan politics.

“If I had a chance to marry Raila, I would marry him again. I would be happy to do it, but this time I will marry him knowing he is a politician, not only an engineer,” Ida Odinga stated, reflecting on their journey. She admitted that when they first met 54 years ago, she did not perceive his political inclinations, having envisioned marrying a calm professional.

Historical and Political Context

Ida Odinga's life has been inextricably linked to Kenya's turbulent political history. She met Raila Odinga in the early 1970s while both were at the University of Nairobi, marrying in September 1973. Their marriage endured through Raila Odinga's lengthy detentions as a political prisoner in the 1980s under President Daniel arap Moi's regime, a period during which she largely raised their four children single-handedly.

Raila Odinga's political career, which began in earnest in the early 1980s, saw him fight against authoritarianism, leading to multiple detentions without trial. He served as the Member of Parliament for Lang'ata Constituency from 1992 to 2013 and held the position of Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 as part of a power-sharing deal following the contentious 2007 presidential election.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The Odinga family's experiences highlight the significant impact of political life on personal lives in Kenya. The political landscape has often seen spouses drawn into the public sphere, sometimes facing scrutiny or becoming targets of political attacks. Ida Odinga herself has been a prominent activist and businesswoman, founding the League of Kenya Women Voters in 1991 to promote opportunities for women in politics and championing causes related to women, children, and health.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

During the funeral service, Ida Odinga emphasized Raila's commitment to national unity and his disdain for greed and corruption. She urged Kenyans and leaders to maintain unity and prioritize national interest, echoing her husband's wishes. She also shared insights into their family dynamics, noting Raila's close bond with his elder brother, Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, whom he often consulted.

Evidence and Data

• Marriage Duration: Ida and Raila Odinga were married for 52 years, from September 1973 until his passing in October 2025.
• Children: They had four children: Fidel (deceased), Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie.
• Political Detentions: Raila Odinga endured multiple detentions without trial, including a six-year period from 1982 to 1988.
• Public Roles: Ida Odinga founded the League of Kenya Women Voters in 1991 and served as its chairperson, advocating for women's political participation.

Risks and Implications

The Odinga family's journey illustrates the personal toll of political activism and leadership in Kenya. The challenges faced by Ida Odinga, including raising her children during her husband's detentions and navigating a demanding public life, underscore the resilience required of political spouses. The public nature of political marriages in Kenya can also lead to spouses being subjected to public scrutiny and criticism.

Unknowns and Controversies

While Ida Odinga's recent statements provide a deeply personal perspective, the full extent of the private struggles and triumphs within their marriage, particularly during intense political periods, remains largely a private matter. Public discourse often focuses on the political aspects, leaving personal narratives less explored.

Timeline and Next Steps

Raila Odinga passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India at the age of 80. His State funeral service was held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, followed by his burial on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his home in Bondo, Siaya County.

What to Watch

As Kenya continues to mourn the passing of Raila Odinga, attention will likely remain on his family, particularly his children, some of whom are actively involved in politics. Their continued engagement in public life will be a testament to the enduring legacy of the Odinga family in shaping Kenya's political future.

Related Stories

The narrative of political marriages and their impact on Kenya's political landscape is a recurring theme, with historical examples such as Jomo Kenyatta and Oginga Odinga, and Mwai Kibaki and Raila Odinga, demonstrating how personal relationships can shape national trajectories.