The former Prime Minister had travelled abroad for a routine medical check-up and was in good spirits, according to his sister.
Speaking during an interview, Ruth recalled how she decided to prepare her brother’s favorite meal — fried fish with traditional vegetables — a day before his sudden death.
She said Raila was very happy and even joked about how she managed to carry fresh fish all the way from Kenya.
“I told him I came prepared because I know how he loves fish. He laughed and said the food reminded him of home,” Ruth shared emotionally.
That day, the Odinga family had lunch together with Raila’s daughter Winnie and his aide Maurice Ogeta.
Everyone was cheerful, unaware that it would be their last meal with him. Later that evening, Raila joined others for a simple dinner of chapati and green grams before heading to rest.
The following morning, Ruth said Raila went for his usual morning walk around the resort. After several rounds, he suddenly collapsed.
Doctors rushed to help him, but despite all efforts, he didn’t make it.
“It was quick, and he did not suffer,” Ruth said softly, adding that her father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, also passed in a similar peaceful way.
She described Raila as strong and full of hope even during his treatment.
“He was full of life, talking about coming back home soon. He wanted to rest a bit before returning to Kenya,” she added.
Ruth’s story has touched many Kenyans who are still mourning the loss of the man fondly called Baba.
Online, messages of love and heartbreak continue to pour in, with many saying Raila’s death left a huge gap in Kenya’s political and social life.
Ruth later thanked Kenyans for their prayers and support, saying that her brother lived a complete and purposeful life dedicated to the country.
“Jakom loved his people deeply. Even in his last days, he only spoke about Kenya,” she said.
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