Kimilili member of Parliament, Didmus Barasa, has hailed Winnie Odinga for embodying the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s commanding charisma.

In a statement on Saturday, October 18, 2025, the vocal lawmaker stated that Winnie’s eloquence was proof enough that Raila’s spirit was shining anew in her.

The Kimilili MP, who is eyeing the Bungoma governor seat, also stated that Winnie Odinga embodies deep sagacity but is still rooted in humility.

“Raila Odinga’s spirit shines anew in Winnie, who emanates articulate eloquence, deep sagacity, and steadfast assurance,” Barasa stated.

“She embodies her father’s commanding charisma while rooted in genuine humility. May our merciful Lord embrace her with serenity and grace,” the MP added.

Born March 6, 1990, Winnie is the youngest daughter (in Luo dialect Chogo) of the 52-year-old union between the late Raila and Ida Odinga.

Her powerful tribute

Speaking during her father’s state funeral service at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, October 17, 2025, Winnie Odinga gave an emotional and deeply personal tribute, recounting Raila’s final moments in India.

She also reflected on the values he instilled in his family and the nation.

“I was with him in India when he took his last breath. He died in my arms, but he did not die as people have been saying on social media. Every day he was waking up and walking one round, then two rounds the next day. That morning, he pushed to five rounds. He died strong and with dignity and pride, and you must be proud of that,” Winnie stated.

She described the former premier not only as a national icon but also as a devoted father and a source of strength to their family

“I don’t know who I’ll miss more… my dad or my superhero. I am the luckiest girl in the world because you were my dad,” she said, adding that her siblings, the late Fidel, Rosemary, and Junior, shared in that privilege.

Winnie, who is serving as a Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), remembered her father as a man of grace and resilience, one who fell and rose again, always with forgiveness and hope.

Raila Junior, on his part, vowed to protect the family after inheriting Raila’s fly whisk and Jaramogi’s hat.

“I am very alive to the fact that with my brother Fidel gone, I remain the gentleman of the family. Dad, I want to assure you that I will take care of our family, Mum, Rosie, Winnie, and the larger political family. Thank you for the gift of life, for giving me your name, and for never heaping the weight of it on me,” he said in his tribute.

“Nakuhakikishia kwamba nitatunza familia yetu …Asante kwa kunipa jina lako bila kunitwika jukumu la hilo jina,” Junior added.