Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has set tongues wagging online after revealing fascinating details about her Ghanaian husband’s powerful political family. Speaking at Opoda Farm in Bondo during the funeral of her late brother, Raila Odinga, Ruth shared that her husband hails from Ghana’s prominent Busia family, which boasts deep political roots.
Ruth’s heartfelt tribute came as she welcomed former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, who had travelled to Kenya to console the Odinga family following Raila’s death in India. With grace and humour, she introduced her husband’s lineage to mourners, noting that her in-laws were part of Ghana’s ruling elite.
“It’s a great honour to have my president here. As you all know, my husband is from Ghana — the Busia family. My father-in-law was a chief, and his brother, Kofi Busia, was once Ghana’s prime minister. So when Nana visits, he’s visiting family,” Ruth said proudly, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The revelation left many Kenyans amazed at how two families with such strong political histories had been joined through marriage. Online, netizens couldn’t hide their amusement, with one user quipping, “Yaani, your brother is a prime minister, and you marry into a home with a prime minister. Huku ni ma presidents tu!”
Ruth also introduced her two sons during the burial, explaining their unique names — one named after Pan-African hero Thomas Sankara and the other after her late brother Nyabola. The boys’ appearance and poise impressed many, who lauded Ruth for keeping her family life private despite her high-profile status.
Her moving speech, sprinkled with warmth and humour, not only honoured Raila’s legacy but also highlighted the deep cross-continental ties between Kenya and Ghana’s political dynasties.
By tuko