Raila’s Mark On The Face
Senator Oburu Odinga recently shared the touching story behind the unique marks on his late brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s face.
During the funeral service held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo on Sunday, Oburu recounted how Raila got the mark on his forehead while they were in Germany.
He also mentioned that the mark on his mouth was a result of a childhood mishap when Raila fell from a mango tree while playing in Kisumu.
“Raila fell from a mango tree while we were playing. I had to carry him on my back. People were laughing at us as I cried after he got injured,” Oburu recalled, drawing laughter from mourners.
He described Raila as a courageous and firm man who even challenged their father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, during childhood.
“He once told our father to come with us to the farm to pick cotton since it was such a difficult task,” he said.
Oburu thanked Raila’s personal doctor and staff for their dedication and commended Ida Odinga for standing by her husband during his long detentions and political struggles.
“Mama Ida was very young when Raila was detained at 37. She remained committed to him. Some of you wouldn’t have sustained that—you’re too hot,” he joked, prompting laughter.
He also expressed deep gratitude to President William Ruto for facilitating Raila Odinga’s medical treatment in India.
He praised the President for standing with the family and offering unwavering support during Raila’s final journey home.
“It is the President who organized how Raila was flown to India. He has really supported us to give him a befitting state burial,” Oburu said.
Raila’s Mark On The Face
