Rosemary Odinga, daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has shared a personal account of the moment she learnt about her father’s passing.
Speaking on Friday, October 17, Rosemary recounted the confusion and disbelief that followed the devastating call from her brother, Raila Odinga Jr.
"I remember the day I received the message. I was seated on the table, just finished my breakfast, and then my brother Raila Odinga Jr. called me, and he asked me where I was. And I told him, I'm seated at the table. And then he asked me to sit down. And I asked myself, do I sit on the floor, or on the table, or the seat at the table is good enough? I was so confused. But then Junior then told me that our father was no longer with us," she said.
Rosemary went on to express the enduring pain her family continues to experience since the passing of their father, describing how his absence has left a profound void in their lives.
"Until today, it is still very difficult. It is very difficult for us to feel like a family. And today, we are here to pray for Kenya and the rest of the world. I want to say thank you very much," she added.
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Elsewhere, the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Bondo Diocese Bishop Revered David Hillington Kodia received a standing ovation from Kenyans during the state funeral.
In a powerful sermon, Reverend Kobia boldly called out leaders who are accused of looting public resources.
The Bondo ACK Bishop emphasized that any leader who misuses public resources should be condemned and held accountable.
"When we are proclaiming the word, we should not be fearful. Words proclaimed must have the power to transform. It must have the power to make us renewed in our strength for the liberation of our country from those who are looting everything from us. From the country level to everywhere.
"I want to make a testament with the people of Kenya. If there is anyone here at whatever level, be you a governor, or an MCA who has looted this country, you know you stand a chance of being condemned," he said.
Raila’s state funeral attracted regional and national leaders who turned up to pay their final respects and honour his legacy.
Among those present were Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Tanzanian Vice President Philip Mpango, South Sudan Deputy President Rebbeca Nyandeng Garang and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete.
Others were President William Ruto, Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, Chief Justice Martha Koome, Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Fred Matiangi.
