Ida Odinga has revealed that she was surprised to learn that her late husband, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, had left instructions requiring his burial within 72 hours of his death.
Ida said she did not know when Raila prepared the will or whether he wrote it in Kenya or abroad, leaving her astonished by the specific timeline.
The revelation offers a glimpse into Raila’s private preparations and decisions made away from public attention.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, while receiving medical treatment in India, ending the life of one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
His family moved quickly to honour the instruction, although the state funeral required extensive preparations within a tight period.
The national funeral committee announced that Raila would be buried on October 19 at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, four days after his death.
His programme included public viewing in Nairobi, a memorial service at Nyayo Stadium and a final journey to his rural home.
The burial was held at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, where Raila was laid to rest near the graves of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and son Fidel.
His longtime spokesperson Dennis Onyango later said Raila had privately discussed his preference for a quick burial months before his death.
Onyango said the issue arose partly after former Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla died, having similarly requested burial within 72 hours.
For Ida, the revelation showed that Raila had made arrangements concerning his final wishes without discussing every detail with his family.
Her comments highlight the contrast between Raila’s planned farewell and Kenya’s often lengthy funeral ceremonies.
Raila’s death triggered tributes across Kenya and abroad, with leaders, foreign governments and citizens mourning a politician whose career spanned decades.
The government later preserved condolence messages received from around the world as part of efforts to document Raila’s legacy for future generations.
Ida’s account adds a personal detail to Raila’s final chapter, showing that even those closest to him were surprised by decisions made privately during a period of national mourning and reflection.
The revelation keeps public attention focused on Raila’s final days, private decisions and the wishes that shaped his farewell to the nation and family.