In a ceremony that felt more like a passing of a torch than a mere tradition, Raila Odinga Junior was formally installed as the head of the Odinga family at Opoda Farm in Bondo.
The ritual came at a time when Kenya is still mourning the late Raila Odinga, marking both an ending and a beginning for one of the country’s most influential political families.
The event was deeply symbolic as Raila Jr underwent a traditional shaving ceremony performed by his grandmother, signifying cleansing, rebirth, and transition into leadership.
Dressed in cultural regalia, he was handed a Luo spear and shield, tokens of authority, protection, and responsibility. As drums echoed and songs filled the air, family members and guests watched quietly, aware they were witnessing a defining moment in history.
According to Luo customs, the ceremony was held on the fourth day after the burial, which marks the end of the mourning period. Senator Oburu Odinga, who led the proceedings, clarified that the installation was not a political event but a cultural one.
“This is not political leadership, but this is the leadership of the home,” he said.
Adding;
“The seat of power in this home now rests with the new leader, Raila Junior, together with his mother. The mother will always be there to offer guidance and wisdom, but the young man must stand firm and lead this home. That is our culture.”
Oburu also explained the timing of the event.
“Today is the fourth day, my brother was buried on Sunday last week. That is in our culture that after the fourth night, that is the day the funeral ends officially.”
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the Tero Buru ritual, where cattle were led to Kang’o ka Jaramogi, the resting place of the Odinga patriarch. The act symbolised the family’s continued bond with its ancestors and the passing of blessings to the new generation.
Political leaders and close family friends attended the ceremony to show their support. Among them were Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, and Royal Media Services Chairman SK Macharia.
Macharia, who has long-standing ties with the Odinga family, visited the homestead earlier in the day to console Ida Odinga.
“I came this morning to see Ida Odinga and offer my support. She has been left by her husband, who was also my brother. Jaramogi told me he had two sons, and since I was older, I should take care of them. They are my brothers. They were left to me,” Macharia said.
The installation of Raila Jr marks the continuation of a powerful legacy that has shaped Kenya’s history for decades. Social media was abuzz with photos and videos from the event, showing Raila Jr’s head being shaved and the moment he received the spear and shield.
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