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Kenya, 25 October 2025 - Thousands of mourners from across the country continue to throng the home of the late ODM leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County, as Kenyans come to terms with the passing of one of the nation’s most influential political figures.
The Odinga family has opened its doors to the public, welcoming all who wish to visit and pay their respects to the man many affectionately called Baba.
Speaking to mourners at the family’s residence, Raila Odinga Junior expressed gratitude for the overwhelming show of love and solidarity.
“We are deeply humbled by the outpouring of love for Baba,” Raila Junior said.
“We want to sincerely thank everyone who has visited to condole with us. May God bless you all.”
His paternal uncle, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, echoed the same message, assuring Kenyans that the family home in Kang’o Kajaramogi remains open to all.
“Our doors are open to every Kenyan who wishes to come and mourn with us,” Dr Oginga said.
“This is not just our loss as a family, but a national loss.”
Mama Ida Odinga, [Raila] Odinga's widow, welcomed guests with humility thanking them for standing with them during this solemn period of reflection.
"As a family we are happy with you and are humbled by your demonstrated generosity, love, and compassion. Be blessed," said Mama Ida.
The homestead — also the ancestral home of Kenya’s first Vice President, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga — has taken on the atmosphere of a national shrine.
Mourners have been streaming in on foot, by bus, and on motorbikes, turning the quiet Bondo village into a hub of emotion and remembrance.
From young people who grew up chanting Raila’s name at rallies, to elderly citizens who witnessed his father’s role in the country’s independence struggle, many have come to pay tribute to a leader they say dedicated his life to justice, democracy, and equality.
The scene at the gravesite has been one of deep emotion.
Groups of mourners have been seen weeping openly, while others sang freedom songs associated with the ODM leader’s long political journey.
Some visitors knelt beside the grave, praying and laying flowers as a sign of respect.
The Youths for Baba led by Mr Fred Makajos, led the mourners dressed in red beret and carrying an ODM flag, saluted solemnly before the tomb — a gesture symbolic of Odinga’s enduring connection to the people.
“Baba never abandoned us,” she said softly.
“He fought for all Kenyans, and we will never forget.”
The family’s decision to welcome the public reflects the deep bond Raila Odinga shared with ordinary citizens throughout his decades in public life.
His Opoda home and Kang'o Ka Jaramogi, served as both a political nerve centre and a place of refuge for those seeking guidance, hope, or simply the presence of a leader they trusted.
For now, the compound is engulfed in emotions — part memorial, part pilgrimage — as Kenya continues to mourn the man many credit with reshaping the nation’s democratic landscape.