Royal Media Services (RMS) chairman SK Macharia has explained why he has remained close to the late Raila Odinga, ODM leader Oburu Oginga, and their families.

Speaking on Thursday, October 15, during the first memorial of Raila in Bondo, Siaya County, Macharia said the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga entrusted him with the responsibility of looking after them. 

The RMS owner recounted that after supporting Jaramogi in the 1992 election, he asked him to look after Oburu and Raila in case he did not live long. 

“I supported Jaramogi in the election of 1992 after multi-party. Jaramogi told me he has two sons, Oburu and Raila Odinga, and I am older than them. 

“In case he doesn't live long, I take care of them; that is why I have never parted from both Raila, Oburu and their families,” Macharia explained. 

He also recounted that, after Raila lost the 2022 General Election, the former Prime Minister and Oburu visited him at his home to console him. 

“In the 2022 election, when Raila did not make it, he and Oburu came to my house to cool me down. They told me not to worry. You can see what a human being we had in Raila,” he added. 

Leaders from across the country are attending Raila’s first memorial in Bondo, Siaya. 

Among the attendees are Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and former Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo.

Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, former Chief Justice David Maraga, and PLP leader Martha Karua were also in attendance.

Sifuna shared an update on Mama Ida’s condition during the gathering, expressing reassurance about how she was doing as she welcomed leaders to the family home.

"Mama Ida Odinga has welcomed us to Opoda. She is in good spirits," the Linda Mwananchi leader stated.