Bondo, Siaya County, October 20, 2025 — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday made a private visit to the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, where he paid his respects at the burial site of his long-time political ally and friend.
Uhuru, who arrived in the company of close family members and a few former government officials, was received by members of the Odinga family, including Dr. Oburu Oginga, who now serves as acting ODM party leader. The former Head of State laid a wreath at Raila’s graveside before holding a brief moment of silence.
Sources close to the family said the visit was personal and reflective, with Uhuru spending several minutes in quiet conversation with Mama Ida Odinga and the Odinga family before touring the homestead.
“President (Rtd) Uhuru Kenyatta came to condole with the family once more and to pay his final respects to his brother Raila,” Dr. Oburu said. “It was a peaceful and emotional visit, reminding us of the deep bond the two shared beyond politics.”
Uhuru’s visit comes barely 24 hours after Raila’s state burial on Sunday, which drew thousands of mourners, dignitaries, and global leaders. During the burial, President William Ruto, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, and several African dignitaries eulogized Raila as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to democracy and Pan-African ideals.
The late Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, while receiving treatment in Kerala, India, was laid to rest beside his father, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President. His burial marked the end of a week of national mourning and reflection on his vast political legacy.
Uhuru and Raila’s friendship, which blossomed after the historic 2018 “Handshake”, redefined Kenya’s political landscape. The two leaders, once fierce rivals, set aside their differences to promote national unity and reconciliation following the divisive 2017 elections.
Their cooperation led to major political reforms, including the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), and laid the foundation for a calmer political climate in Kenya.
Speaking briefly to journalists outside the homestead, Uhuru described Raila as “a true patriot and a man who always placed Kenya above self.”
“Raila believed in a better Kenya — a just, united, and prosperous nation. Even when we disagreed, I never doubted his love for this country. His legacy will continue to guide us,” Uhuru said.
He further called on Kenyans to honour Raila’s memory by embracing peace, unity, and democracy.
“Our greatest tribute to Raila is to keep his dream alive — a Kenya where every citizen has a voice and where leadership is about service, not division,” he added.
The visit drew emotional reactions from locals in Bondo, many of whom gathered quietly along the road to wave at the former president’s convoy.
Security was tight during the visit, with officers from the Presidential Escort Unit and Siaya County police ensuring order as Uhuru’s convoy entered and left the Odinga compound.
Uhuru is expected to remain in Siaya County for a short private retreat before returning to Nairobi later in the week.
The former President’s gesture has been widely interpreted as a continuation of the handshake spirit, underscoring a message of reconciliation, unity, and respect across Kenya’s political divide.
