Siaya Senator and late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s brother, Oburu Odinga, has commended his niece, Raila Odinga’s daughter and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member Winnie Odinga, for leaving her official duties in Arusha to accompany her father to India for medical treatment.

Speaking during Raila Odinga’s final send-off at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) on Sunday, October 19, 2025, Oburu described Winnie as a courageous and devoted daughter.

He recounted that during a session in Arusha, Winnie chose to forgo attending in order to remain by her father’s side, demonstrating remarkable commitment and love.

Oburu further stated that from the moment they travelled to India, Winnie remained with her father, attending to his needs and providing constant care. Her dedication and attentiveness, he noted, went beyond what was expected, ensuring that her father received the best possible care.

He praised Winnie for her unwavering support, describing her actions as both caring and selfless. Her presence and devotion were instrumental during a critical period, reflecting not only her love for her father but also her deep sense of responsibility and family commitment.

“Winnie is a very brave, brave lady. She was there when there was a session in Arusha, where they were supposed to go for the session. I asked, ‘Are you not going?’ She told me, ‘Look at him,’ and then she just pointed at the father and said, ‘I’m not going because of him.’ I have to be with him. And that is before I went to India, and she was there from that date.” Oburu stated.

Winnie’s last moment Raila

Winnie Odinga was at her father’s side during his final moments. She recalled holding his hand as he took his last breath.

 While in India, she was seen carrying Raila Odinga’s iconic hat and placing it on his casket before the body was flown back to Kenya. Upon arrival in Kenya, the hat was gently handed to her mother.

Speaking during the state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, Winnie shared that she witnessed her father’s last moments and reflected on his daily exercises.

She noted that on the first day he walked two rounds, increasing to three on the second day, and by the last day, he completed five rounds before collapsing.

Winnie Odinga is the youngest daughter of Raila Odinga.