The late Raila Odinga’s nephew, Jaramogi Orango, stirred both laughter and reflection during his public speech, when he made a strikingly humorous remark linking retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and his late uncle.
While addressing mourners who had gathered during Raila’s funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University grounds on Sunday October 19, 2025, Orango lightened the somber mood with an off-the-cuff comment.
“Ka ningejuwa ningeongea aki, ningeenda niulize Uhuru anisaidie na ile uji alikunywa na Raila,” he said
(If I knew I would be speaking today, I would have gone to ask Uhuru to give me some of the porridge he shared with Raila)
The audience burst into laughter, appreciating the layered meaning behind his words. The comment, though humorous, carried undertones of the close political and personal friendship that once existed between Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, especially during their historic 2018 “handshake” that ended years of bitter rivalry.
Orango’s remark symbolically hinted at the bond the two leaders shared, one that many Kenyans believed had a unique “recipe” for peace and reconciliation, despite political divisions.
His statement also echoed the longing of many who admired Raila’s resilience and his secret behind his enduring influence and charisma.
Beyond the laughter, Orango’s speech reflected the deep respect he holds for his uncle.
“Raila ni mtu, labda hukua unampenda ama ulikuwa unampenda. Lakini ni lazima ulikuwa una mheshimu,” he added.
Online, the clip of Orango’s humorous line has been widely shared, with many netizens commending him for capturing both the pain and pride of the Odinga family moment in a way that felt deeply Kenyan, serious, soulful, but still able to laugh through the tears.
