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Ida maintained that the political relationship between Ruto and Raila should therefore be viewed as having begun long before their political handshake that brought the two together after years of political confrontation
Raila died in India on October 15, 2025, aged 80, bringing to an end a political career that spanned several decades and saw him become one of the country’s most prominent opposition figures.
Oloo said Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, had made it clear that although everyone was welcome, “goons” would not be allowed to take part in the celebrations.
Manyora suggested that Sifuna would probably not have broken away from ODM if Ida had taken charge, saying their relationship would not have developed into the kind of disagreement he has had with Oburu.
Speaking during the funeral of their cousin, Prof. Jacob Midiwo, Ida expressed concern over the growing tendency of some youth being associated with criminal or disruptive activities, saying such labels were damaging and unjust.
Speaking in Mombasa, Ida made it clear that despite her proximity to influential political figures, she does not consider herself part of the political class.
The approval followed a report by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, chaired by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, which found Mama Ida suitable for the post.
The report is set to be tabled during Wednesday’s plenary sitting, where Members of Parliament will debate the recommendation and vote on whether to adopt or reject it.
Ida's heartfelt reflection momentarily shifted the formal tone of the vetting, revealing the personal dimension behind her public service aspirations. Ida expressed sincere appreciation to President William Samoei Ruto for trusting her with the role of Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Kenya’s National Assembly will vet Ida Odinga and Francis Meja on 20 February 2026 in Nairobi, inviting public memoranda as part of the constitutional approval process for the two presidential nominees.
Ida recalled that Raila’s death itself came as a shock, leaving unresolved matters and unexpected responsibilities for the family to handle. Ida said they were not anticipating his passing at this stage, which added to the intensity of their grief.
The East African Legislative Assembly lawmaker said the nomination reflects Ida Odinga’s decades of leadership and dedication to public service.