Raila’s Nephew asks Uhuru for ‘uji’
Mourners at the funeral service for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga experienced a mix of tears and laughter as his nephew, Jaramogi Orango, shared a heartfelt yet humorous tribute to the late leader.
As he stepped up to the podium, his voice quivering with emotion, Jaramogi confessed he felt a bit anxious speaking in front of the large crowd that had gathered to pay their respects to his grandfather.
“If I knew I was to speak today, I would have taken something to boost my confidence,” he said.
“Natoa jasho ingine mbaya sana hapa juu. Ningejua nitaongea ningeuliza Uhuru (Kenyatta) anisaidie ile uji alikunywa na Raila.” Raila’s nephew Jaramogi Oranga said.
He humorously added, “I would have asked former President Uhuru Kenyatta to help me with the uji (porridge) he used to enjoy with Raila, because I’m really sweating here, but my mother is right next to me.”
His comments brought laughter from the mourners, momentarily lifting the heavy atmosphere that had enveloped the event.
At Raila’s state funeral in Nairobi, former President Uhuru Kenyatta had earlier shared warm memories of enjoying chai (tea) and uji with Raila, calling him a “brother” and a “patriot” who stood firm in his beliefs and friendships.
Jaramogi went on to express that his grandfather inspired the younger generation to be courageous, visionary, and unafraid to fight for the Kenya they envision.
“I will strive to live courageously like my grandfather, who lived a full life to 80 years,” he said.
The heartfelt tribute from the young Orango brought a personal touch to the ceremony, beautifully reflecting the warmth and humor that defined Raila’s life and family.
Raila Odinga Junior, the son of the former Prime Minister, expressed his sorrow over the loss of his father, describing him as a dedicated Pan-Africanist and patriot who championed democracy in the country.
He noted that Kenyans, both at home and around the globe, have been mourning Raila since his passing on October 15 while receiving treatment in India. Raila Junior emphasized that they are here to celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man.
“We are no longer mourning Jakom, but we are celebrating his life today as we give him a final send off,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and the entire government for their tremendous support during Raila’s final journey.
“We have received support from President Ruto and the government, which has enabled us to give our father a decent send-off befitting his stature,” Raila Jr said.
He praised Raila’s team for their unwavering support throughout his political journey and as a father to his kids. Winnie Odinga, in turn, expressed her gratitude to Ruto for being there for the family during the difficult time of her father’s passing.
Raila’s Nephew asks Uhuru for ‘uji’
