Winnie Odinga opens up on pain of going back to Kibra without Raila
By Faith Lagat, January 18, 2026East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Winnie Odinga returned to Kibra on Sunday, January 18, 2026, where she addressed congregants during a church service and spoke candidly about the emotional difficulty of coming back to an area closely associated with her late father, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In her remarks, Winnie explained that grief and uncertainty had delayed her return to the constituency, which has long been central to the Odinga family’s political and personal life.
“Today, we have come back home. This is a place we have come all our lives. I would like to apologise for taking so long to come back, I was a bit troubled, I didn’t know how to come back to Kibra without Baba (Raila Odinga), I didn’t know how to talk to you, I thought I’d cry,” she told the congregation.
Her statement reflected the emotional weight attached to Kibra, a constituency that residents and supporters have continued to associate strongly with Raila’s legacy.
Kibra’s place in Odinga political history
Kibra has for decades been regarded as Raila Odinga’s political stronghold, often referred to by supporters as his “political bedroom.” The constituency served as a launchpad for major political announcements and rallies, drawing large crowds during key moments in Kenya’s political history.
Following Raila’s passing, many residents have continued to express a sense of loss, describing him as a father figure whose influence extended beyond politics. Winnie’s acknowledgement of her struggle to return highlighted how deeply the area remains intertwined with family memories and shared political journeys.
Her remarks also resonated with ODM supporters who have maintained close ties to the Odinga family while navigating a period of transition within the party.
ODM engagements continue in Kibra
Winnie’s appearance comes amid renewed ODM efforts to reconnect with grassroots supporters in Kibra. On January 14, 2026, ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga held a consultative forum at Kamukunji Grounds in the constituency, marking the party’s first major engagement in the area since Raila’s death.
During the forum, Oburu emphasised the significance of Kibra in ODM’s history, noting that Raila frequently used the venue to address supporters and outline major political positions. The event attracted large crowds, reflecting sustained loyalty to the party and the Odinga legacy despite leadership changes.
Earlier gestures have also underscored Kibra’s symbolic importance. In November 2025, ODM Nairobi Chairlady Catherine Okoth appealed to Mama Ida Odinga to retain her voting station in Kibra, describing the move as a way for residents to maintain a sense of connection with Raila. “We will be seeing Baba,” Okoth said during the visit.