Ida Odinga Shares Why She Barred Raila from Seeing His Sister Beryl

Siaya residents and Kenyans were moved as Ida Odinga, widow of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, spoke about her deep bond with her late sister-in-law, Beryl Achieng’.

Beryl passed away after a long illness, just weeks after Raila’s burial.

Ida Odinga revealed that she prevented Raila from visiting Beryl when her condition worsened.

She said seeing Beryl in a critical state at the hospital was devastating and feared it would be too much for Raila, who was very close to his sister.

“When I saw her in the hospital, she could barely speak and was attached to several medical devices. Her children, Taurai and Ami, were there. I told Raila, ‘Don’t go and see Beryl now; she is okay.’ I knew it would be too painful for him,” Ida recalled.

Ida also explained that after Raila’s death in India, she advised the family not to inform Beryl immediately, fearing that the news would further harm her fragile health.

She admitted she did not know if the family kept her request but said the loss of both Raila and Beryl has been extremely painful.

The widow described Beryl as a kind and generous person. She recalled their first meeting at the University of Nairobi and spoke about Beryl’s love for children and her habit of giving gifts.

“It is not easy to talk about Beryl. She was friendly, wonderful, and very loving,” Ida said.

During the funeral at Nyamira Primary School grounds in Bondo Sub-County, Ida appealed to ODM leaders and supporters to respect the family’s grief.

She reminded them that Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga holds a leadership position in the party and urged political rivals and supporters not to create chaos online while the family mourns.

“With the Odingas, you know how we feel. Please give us some space. What has happened is very painful,” she said.

The Odinga family’s appeal comes amid ongoing political activity within ODM, emphasizing the need to separate party matters from personal loss.

Ida’s heartfelt remarks highlighted the family’s struggle to cope with two major losses in a short period, while also showing her concern for the wellbeing of other family members.

Ida Odinga’s tribute has resonated widely online, with many Kenyans expressing condolences and admiration for the family’s strength during this difficult period.