Raila Jr crowned as Raila Odinga family head in Luo cultural ceremony
The event, which took place on Thursday, was steeped in Luo tradition, highlighting the continuity of family heritage and cultural values rather than politics.
A solemn and symbolic ceremony unfolded at the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s Opoda farm home in Bondo, marking the formal passing of family leadership to his son, Raila Junior.
The event, which took place on Thursday, was steeped in Luo tradition, highlighting the continuity of family heritage and cultural values rather than politics.
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Senator Oburu Odinga, speaking as the cultural head of the wider Odinga family, explained the purpose of the ceremony.
Raila Odinga Junior undergoes the symbolic shaving to mark the end of the four-day mourning period for an adult Luo man. (Photo: James Orengo)
“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,” he said.
Oburu emphasised that he continues to serve as the overarching cultural leader of the Odinga clan, a role he maintained even during the lifetime of the late family patriarch, just as his father did before him.
He noted that the ritual follows time-honoured customs, observing that the fourth day after a burial holds special significance in Luo tradition.
“My brother was buried on Sunday last week,” Oburu recalled. Counting from that day, the fourth night marked the official conclusion of the funeral rites, setting the stage for Raila Junior’s installation as family head.
Raila Junior wields the traditional spear and shield after being crowned as the head of the Raila Odinga family. (Photo: James Orengo)
Raila passed away on October 15, 2035, in India, where he had sought medical treatment.
His death prompted seven days of national mourning, attracting thousands of citizens, political leaders, and international dignitaries to Bondo to honour his legacy as a pioneering figure in Kenyan democracy.
The former Prime Minister was laid to rest on Sunday evening at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. The private ceremony included national leaders, family members, and a limited number of mourners.
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