SK Macharia says support for Raila stems from family ties
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 23, 2025SK Macharia, Chairman of Royal Media Service, visited Ida Odinga at the family home in Bondo on Thursday, October 23, 2025, paying his respects to the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The visit came days after Raila’s burial, during a period when several leaders have been visiting the Odinga homestead to honour his legacy.
Macharia explained that his support for Raila has deep roots in family ties.
“I came this morning to see Ida and pat her back, merely because she has been left by her husband, who was also my brother,” he said.
He recalled his long-standing friendship with Raila and his late father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and emphasised his responsibility towards Jaramogi’s children, Oburu and Raila.
“Jaramogi told me he had two sons, and since I was older than both, I should take care of them. They are my brothers. They were left to me,” Macharia added.
Leaders honour Raila’s legacy
He recounted memories of working with Raila and Ida during Jaramogi’s time, highlighting their shared history and his role in guiding them. Macharia stressed the importance of Raila’s contributions to the country, praising him as a great father and a devoted public servant.
“He has given to this country what we don’t fully know. The history will tell us,” he said.
The visit coincided with similar tributes by other leaders who have been paying respects since Raila’s burial on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Siaya Governor James Orengo visited Raila’s grave on October 21, emphasising his role in mediating political tensions in Nairobi and guiding city leadership.
Governors Kenneth Lusaka and Ochilo Ayacko, along with Orengo, followed with a visit on October 22, reflecting Raila’s influence across political boundaries.
During these visits, leaders laid wreaths, offered prayers, and reflected on Raila’s enduring legacy, which spanned decades of public service and championed democracy, justice, and inclusive governance.