SK Macharia reveals why he stood by Raila despite Mt Kenya pressure
By Kiprono Keileb, October 23, 2025SK Macharia has opened up about his long-standing support for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying his loyalty was rooted in a personal bond with Raila and his late father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
Speaking during a visit to Mama Ida at Raila Odinga’s home in Bondo on Thursday, October 23, 2025, Macharia recalled a vivid memory of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s final days in Nairobi.
“The last day Jaramogi left Nairobi, we walked through Ida Odinga and his secretary. I walked him through the stairs of Ajib House and as I put him in the car he told me to come back the following week we go and see then president Moi. He had called president Moi and informed him he wanted an appointment with him and me,” Macharia recalled.
He further explained that Jaramogi had entrusted him with the care of his sons, Oburu and Raila.
“He also told me he had two sons, one is Oburu and another called Raila, he told me to take care of them as I am older than both of them,” Macharia said, highlighting the deep personal bond that guided his political stance over the years.
Macharia also addressed criticisms and rumours from various quarters, including during the presidencies of Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, over his support for the Odinga family.
“Whenever you are hearing rumours that a Kikuyu called SK Macharia even during Matiba’s time, Kibakis and even Uhuru’s time that I am supporting Oginga Odinga, it is because they are my brothers. They were left for me by the father Oginga Odinga,” he said.
Reflecting on Raila Odinga’s legacy, Macharia described the late leader as a figure of immense stature and dedication to Kenya.
“Raila Odinga was a great man like his father. He gave his country what the history will tell,” Macharia said, emphasizing the national significance of his contributions.
Through his words, Macharia painted a picture of loyalty that transcended politics, rooted not in convenience or political gain, but in respect, personal bonds, and a commitment to the Oginga Odinga family legacy.