Raila Odinga Junior, the son of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has recalled how his father entertained people with vitendawili, saying he will miss the moments.
Speaking during Raila’s final funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University grounds on Sunday October 19, 2025, Raila Junior said he will miss his dad, especially his dancing styles.
“Baba, you’ve left us with your vitendawilis, we will miss them. We will greatly miss you, your fun, your joy and your dancing styles,” he said.
“I know Baba [Raila Odinga] is smiling because he has given us so many holidays, and now he has given us Easter in October,” he added.
He explained that Baba gave his life to all Kenyans, and was also available to his family.
According to Raila Junior, this was not a day for mourning, but for celebrating a life well lived at 80 years.
Beginning his speech, he first spoke in the local Luo language, greeting the gathering: “Jothurwa amosou, Jokanyanyam Amosou, Nyikwa Ramogi untie, kamano.” He then requested permission to switch to English for the benefit of international guests, ensuring all could follow his heartfelt words.
Raila Junior asked the vast crowd to stand for a moment of silence to honour his father. He reflected on the long journey of bringing the former leader’s body back to his final resting place in Bondo, Siaya County.
The journey home was described as an epic national procession from India to JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) through the Expressway to Kasarani Stadium, Nyayo Stadium, then a flight to Kisumu. “And now finally, Baba is home,” he stated, referring to Bondo.
He took a moment to express profound gratitude.
