A throwback video of Raila Odinga introducing Fidel Odinga's widow, Lwam Bekele, during what appears to be a funeral or memorial gathering has resurfaced online, stirring deep emotion among Kenyans as the first anniversary of Raila's death on 15 October draws near. The clip, which surfaced on TikTok, was filmed at an outdoor tent event and shows Raila addressing a crowd with a microphone in hand, visibly composed despite the weight of the moment.
In the video, Raila spoke directly about Lwam, describing her warmly and calling on those in attendance to stand with her as she faced life without Fidel. He praised Lwam as intelligent and caring, saying, "This is Lwam, Lwam Odinga, Fidel Odinga. You can see this young, beautiful girl. Fidel knew how to choose them — a very nice, intelligent and very caring lady."
Raila acknowledged Lwam's pain openly while also looking ahead with a note of hope. He urged the crowd to grieve alongside her, saying, "As you see her here, she's mourning, but she has a future, and she must have a future." He expressed gratitude and offered words of comfort, saying, "I'm sure all of you are mourning with her. Thank you, Lord. Take heart."
The clip has moved many Kenyans who have been revisiting memories of the veteran opposition leader as his first death anniversary approaches. For many, seeing Raila hold himself together to publicly comfort his late son's widow while grappling with his own grief has been a poignant reminder of the man he was.
Fidel Odinga, the eldest son of Raila and Ida Odinga, passed away, leaving behind his wife Lwam Bekele. His death was a significant moment in Kenyan public life, given Fidel's own professional profile and the prominence of the Odinga family.
Kenyans are reflecting on Raila's life and legacy ahead of his first death anniversary on October 15. A video of Raila boarding a matatu has also resurfaced, showing the veteran politician's connection with ordinary Kenyans. He travelled with his bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, and listened to commuters' concerns about fuel prices and the rising cost of living.
The outpouring of tributes and memories of Raila Odinga is a testament to his impact on Kenyan public life. As Kenyans remember him, they are also celebrating his life and legacy, including his distinctive connection with the public.
Key points
- A resurfaced video of Raila Odinga introducing his late son Fidel's widow, Lwam Bekele, has moved Kenyans online.
- The video was filmed at a funeral or memorial gathering and shows Raila comforting Lwam while grappling with his own grief.
- Kenyans are reflecting on Raila's life and legacy ahead of his first death anniversary on October 15.
