Millie Odhiambo: Continued attacks on Mama Ida after Raila’s commemoration are uncalled for
Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo has come to the defence of the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, led by his widow, Ida Odinga, saying continued attacks against them following his first anniversary commemoration are uncalled for. The criticism directed at Ida and her children stemmed partly from the family’s […]
Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo has defended the family of late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, led by his widow Ida Odinga, following continued attacks after his first anniversary commemoration. The controversy arose from the decision to invite politicians from various political backgrounds to the event held at Migwena Cultural Centre on October 15, 2026.
Odhiambo argued that the attacks against Ida and her children were uncalled for, reflecting the values of democracy and freedom of expression that Raila championed. In a statement on her social media, Odhiambo praised Raila for his immense popularity even in death, noting that reactions to the commemoration were mixed. She emphasized that it was unnecessary for different groups to compete over support for the late opposition leader, as there was no way to measure the love or hatred politicians held towards him.
Odhiambo also highlighted Raila's forgiving nature, highlighting that he forgave others even when many would have found it difficult to forgive. She reminded Kenyans that beyond his political stature, Raila was a family member whose loved ones continued to mourn his death personally. The legislator defended the family's decision to celebrate Raila in a way that reflected his political identity, stating that there was nothing wrong with the event's organization.
Odhiambo urged the family to remain strong amid the criticism, emphasizing that the attacks against Ida and her children reflected the principles Raila stood for, including democracy and freedom of expression. She also commented on remarks made by Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, agreeing that the love Kenyans had for Raila could not be transferred to another person.
Odhiambo called on political leaders to remain humble and reconsider their strategies, noting that young people at the event chanted different political slogans, leaving her questioning the political mood among the younger generation.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
