Winnie hints at joining local politics
East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga has hinted at a possible return to local politics after the passing of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
During a heartfelt moment at Raila’s final funeral service held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya on Sunday, Winnie took a moment to thank President William Ruto for his support to the family during this difficult time.
“Your Excellency, our people appreciate you honouring our father. Thank you for standing with us. You should also know, in case you are wondering, I’m ready to come back home,” she said, turning to face the President—making it clear the message was directed at him.
President Ruto, sitting beside Mama Ida Odinga, was caught exchanging glances before he leaned in a bit and smiled warmly in response.
In recent months, Raila has built a working relationship with President Ruto through a broad-based government arrangement, putting an end to years of political rivalry.
The President also played a significant role in Raila’s attempt to secure the chairmanship of the African Union Commission, a bid he ultimately lost in February.
Political analysts have noted that Raila’s passing is a significant setback for Ruto, who had relied on the seasoned opposition leader to help stabilize his administration after last year’s Gen Z-led anti-government protests nearly brought the country to a standstill.
Winnie expressed her gratitude to the leaders and citizens who have supported the family during this time of mourning, mentioning that she would return later to personally thank everyone.
Winnie Odinga’s regional legislative career kicked off in late 2022 when she was elected to represent Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
Her tenure extends for a standard five-year term, running through to December 19, 2027.
East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga has hinted at returning to local politics following the death of her father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking briefly during Raila’s final funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Siaya on Sunday, Winnie expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for standing with the family during their bereavement.
“Your Excellency, our people appreciate you honouring our father. Thank you for standing with us. You should also know, in case you are wondering, I’m ready to come back home,” she said, turning to face the President—making it clear the message was directed at him.
President Ruto, who was seated next to Mama Ida Odinga, was seen exchanging glances before bending slightly and smiling in response.
Raila had in recent months forged a working relationship with President Ruto through the broad-based government arrangement, ending years of political rivalry.
The President also played a key role in Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship, which he, however, lost in February.
Political observers have described Raila’s death as a political blow to Ruto, who had counted on the veteran opposition leader to steady his administration after last year’s Gen Z-led anti-government protests nearly paralysed the country.
Winnie also thanked leaders and citizens who have supported the family through the mourning period, saying she would return later to personally express her gratitude.
She concluded her remarks with her now-famous phrase: “The king is dead, but long live the crown,” raising her fist in the air before adding, “God bless the republic, God bless Baba’s legacy.”
Winnie Odinga’s journey in regional politics began in late 2022 when she was elected to represent Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
Her election, which was confirmed by both the National Assembly and the Senate, took place on November 17, 2022, and she officially took her oath of office on December 19, 2022, in Arusha, Tanzania.
She will serve a typical five-year term, which will last until December 19, 2027.
Winnie’s election to EALA was a pivotal moment in her political career.
After her father’s passing in India due to cardiac arrest, she has become a beacon of strength, not just for her family but for the entire nation. Despite the heavy grief that enveloped her family, friends, and Raila supporters, she has consistently shown resilience and focus.
Some have touted her as a possible heir to Raila’s political legacy even as they acknowledged that the gap the doyen of opposition politics has left behind is too big to be filled even by veteran politicians.
Raila will be buried later on Sunday at the family graveyard, Kang’o Kajaramogi, marking the end of a long-running political career.
Winnie hints at joining local politics
