Ruth Odinga, the sister of the late opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga, has called on Kenyans to rise above ethnic divisions and embrace unity in honor of her brother’s legacy. Her appeal came after a visit by Kikuyu elders, known as Kiama Kia Ma, to the Odinga family home in Bondo, where they paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister.
In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, Ruth described the visit as deeply symbolic, noting the historical ties between the Luo and Kikuyu communities through their founding fathers, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Jomo Kenyatta.
“Today, we welcomed the Kikuyu elders (Kiama Kia Ma) in Bondo, in their solemn mission to pay tribute to the now departed Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
The Luo and Kikuyu nations have a long and winding history, and this visit must have made my late father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his friend Jomo Kenyatta, smile in their graves,” she wrote.
Ruth expressed optimism that such gestures could rekindle the spirit of national reconciliation.
She reflected on her childhood memories, saying that animosity between the two communities was once unthinkable, adding that former President Uhuru Kenyatta had always been “a brother in every sense.”
Her message struck a tone of hope and renewal amid the grief surrounding Raila’s passing.
“We must rise above divisive ethnic undertones to forge a more united nation. Kenya belongs to all of us, regardless of your ethnic identity,” she emphasized.
The Kikuyu elders’ visit to Bondo is seen as a powerful symbol of healing and solidarity, reinforcing Raila Odinga’s lifelong message of unity and national cohesion beyond tribal boundaries.