Residents of Nyamira village in Bondo gathered quietly at St Peter’s Anglican Church of Kenya on Thursday for Christmas celebrations, marking the community’s first festive season without former prime minister Raila Odinga, who died on 15 October in India.
Odinga, a longstanding opposition leader and key figure in Kenyan politics, had made it a tradition to attend the morning service at the parish church near his family home. His absence was keenly felt, with his customary seat left empty and the congregation observing a minute of silence in his memory.
Bishop acknowledges profound void
Bondo Anglican Diocesan Bishop David Kodia, addressing worshippers, acknowledged the profound void.
“His absence is evident. I knew exactly where he would be seated,” Bishop Kodia said, evoking sorrow among attendees.
Odinga widow Ida Odinga spoke emotionally during the service, describing the occasion as a poignant milestone for the family.
“Every time we came here, we worshipped together with my dear husband, Raila. This is the first Christmas we are gathering here without him, but I am certain his spirit is with us,” she said.
She highlighted the family longstanding practice of celebrating Christmas at the church as an act of thanksgiving, noting the Nyamira community support through times of joy and hardship.
“We thank God for his life, and we pray that his soul rests in eternal peace,” Ida Odinga added.
Family reflects on painful year
Orange Democratic Movement leader Oburu Oginga, Raila elder brother, occupied the seat traditionally reserved for the late politician.
“This is where I always sat with my brother Raila. I will truly miss him, especially our conversations on contemporary issues,” he said.
Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga reflected on the family losses in 2025.
“This year has been painful for us. We lost our brother Raila Odinga, and weeks later, our sister Beryl Odinga. It has not been a good year,” she said.
Odinga children, including Raila Junior and Rosemary Odinga, attended the service.
Bishop Kodia also prayed for and anointed Oburu Oginga, presenting him with a Bible as he assumes leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement party.
“Dr Oburu has gone through a great deal this year. He has taken up party leadership at a very difficult time, and as a church, we need to pray for him so that healing may take place,” the bishop said, urging reliance on scriptural guidance.
Subdued atmosphere at service
Congregants described the atmosphere as subdued compared to previous years.
“When Raila Odinga attended, the celebrations were vibrant. Whenever he was given the microphone, we wanted him to speak all the time,” said church member Joan Akinyi.
Another worshipper, Polycap Ouko, vowed to preserve a tree planted by Odinga during last year service.
“Before the celebrations began last year, Raila planted a tree here. As church members, we will preserve it in his memory,” he said.
Political figures present included Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi.
The service underscored Odinga enduring legacy in his hometown, where his presence had long animated annual Christmas gatherings.
