Winnie Odinga Praises Ruto for Support After Raila Odinga’s Burial

EALA MP Winnie Odinga has said President William Ruto was the only senior political leader who personally reached out to her family following the burial of her father, the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing the gesture as respectful and deeply appreciated.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, Winnie said President Ruto stood out in the period after the family laid Raila to rest.

“Since my father was buried, the only senior leadership that has come to check up and take care of our family has been President Ruto,” she said.

Winnie noted that political differences should not override basic human decency, stressing that disagreement does not negate respect or compassion.

“I can still like you and disagree with you,” she said, adding that goodwill should be acknowledged when it is extended.

She also expressed gratitude to President Ruto for the dignity and honour accorded to Raila Odinga during his final send-off, saying the family felt respected by the Head of State.

“I must also be grateful for the honour and respect the President accorded my father,” Winnie said.

Her remarks come amid ongoing political debate over the evolving relationship between President Ruto and the Odinga family, following decades of political rivalry that shaped Kenya’s political landscape.

Raila Odinga, who died in October 2025, was widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential political figures, having played a central role in both government and opposition politics over several decades.

Winnie, however, maintained that her comments were not political, insisting they were grounded in personal experience and gratitude.

“These are human issues,” she said, adding that respect and kindness should always rise above politics.