Ida Odinga pays glowing tribute to late son Fidel

By Peter Ochieng

Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader, Raila Odinga's wife, Ida has paid glowing tribute to his late son, Fidel.

Fidel Odinga died nine years ago under unclear circumstances, on 4th January, 2015 aged 41.

Odinga's first born would have been 50 today. In her tribute, Ida said Fidel always wanted to be his own man and protect his family.

"From the first day I carried you, to the many months you spent on my lap as a baby, you always wanted to be your own man, so you could protect us," she said.

"I have struggled to accept something that these years without you have taught me. That perhaps, you may have just lived enough because you lived so right. Your passing away, no doubt, shook me and shook us."

She said nothing will ever replace her departed son. "Nothing in this world will ever be able to replace your presence around us."

Ida added, "We haven't withdrawn even half of the sweet names you called us, the wonderful praises you showered us. And with motherly pride, I don't think I will ever exhaust the "Mommy" names you called me."

"So, as you turn 9 as the son I lost, I know you are always here with us. And we are with you. You live in us every day and we have continued to enjoy and practice your joy, love and kindness the way you taught us. Keep resting in peace, Fidel Obange wuod Nyagem."

Before his sudden death, Fidel was reportedly planning to vie for a political seat in preparation of taking over from his father as political kingpin of Nyanza.

Rosemary and Raila Odinga Junior seem not to be interested in politics.

However, the last born, Winnie Odinga is being considered as Raila's political successor in the family.

She is currently serving her first term as a Member of the East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA).