Bondo, Siaya County

In a moment that caught the nation’s attention, Winnie Odinga, the youngest daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, appeared to signal a willingness to work with President William Ruto’s administration.

Speaking during her father’s state funeral on Sunday in Bondo, Siaya County, Winnie delivered a brief but poignant tribute that mixed gratitude, pride, and a hint of political intent.

“Your Excellency, our people appreciate your honouring my father. Thank you for standing with us,” she told President Ruto, who attended the ceremony. Then, with a wry smile, she added, “You should also know, in case you are wondering, I am ready to return home.”

Her words drew applause from parts of the crowd, many interpreting them as a subtle gesture toward reconciliation — and perhaps, an openness to serve under the current government.

For years, the Odinga family has been at the heart of Kenya’s opposition politics. Winnie, currently a Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), has often been seen as the heir to her father’s political legacy. Her remarks, however light in tone, carried the weight of a generational shift.

She also took a moment to thank her father’s long-serving staff for their loyalty and care during his final months. “On behalf of the Odinga family, thank you all for your love and service,” she said.

Elsewhere in the service, Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, spoke movingly about her brother’s difficult journey through Kenya’s political storms. She recalled his detentions under the Moi regime and the years he spent in exile in Norway.

“Raila became a refugee in Norway, staying with me,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion. “He was a strong man. Mama Ida suffered too — imagine all those years living without your husband.”

Ruth added that on the morning of his death, Raila had made a final appeal for unity within his party. “He told me ODM must remain united, it must be strong. ODM belongs to all of us, not a few people who think they own it.”

As Raila Odinga’s body was laid to rest, the speeches reflected both grief and transition — the end of an era, and perhaps, the quiet beginning of another. Winnie’s words, whether spontaneous or deliberate, left many wondering if the Odinga name is preparing for its next chapter in Kenya’s evolving political story.