An emotional and symbolic moment unfolded in Migori as President William Ruto joined Oburu Odinga and Mama Ida Odinga in a moving rendition of “Jamaican Farewell,” a song deeply associated with the Odinga family’s political and personal history.
The scene drew strong reactions from the crowd, blending music, memory, and politics in a rare public display of shared emotion across political divides.
The song, widely known as a favourite of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and the patriarch of the Odinga family, carries profound historical weight.
Jaramogi often used music as a form of expression and reflection, and “Jamaican Farewell” became closely linked to moments of transition, resilience, and contemplation within the family.
Its performance in Migori, Jaramogi’s home region, therefore resonated far beyond entertainment.
As the melody filled the air, President Ruto stood alongside Oburu Odinga, Raila Odinga’s elder brother, and Mama Ida, Raila’s spouse, creating a striking image of political rapprochement and national symbolism.
Observers noted that the moment appeared unscripted and deeply personal, with the crowd responding in near silence before breaking into applause.
For many, it was a reminder that Kenya’s political story is also a human one, shaped by shared history, loss, and cultural memory.
The Migori event itself was part of President Ruto’s broader engagement tour in the region, following a period of reduced political hostility between his administration and leaders aligned with the Odinga family.
While political differences remain, recent gestures have suggested a deliberate effort to lower temperatures and promote national cohesion.
Music has long played a subtle but powerful role in Kenyan politics, often serving as a bridge between generations and ideologies.
The choice of “Jamaican Farewell” was particularly evocative, symbolising reflection rather than triumph, unity rather than confrontation.
For older residents, the song rekindled memories of Jaramogi’s era and the long struggle for political pluralism. For younger audiences, it offered a rare glimpse into the emotional continuity of Kenya’s political families.
The presence of Mama Ida Odinga added further depth to the moment. Long regarded as a quiet but influential figure in Kenyan public life, her participation reinforced the personal nature of the occasion, grounding it in family legacy rather than partisan rivalry.
By Newshub