In a quiet, emotional ceremony at Opoda Farm in Bondo, the Odinga family turned a page in history. At exactly four days after the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, his son, Raila Junior, was formally installed as the new head of the family.
Dr. Oburu, who is also the senator for Siaya county and who remains the cultural patriarch of the wider Odinga’s family, explained that the event symbolized the passing of domestic authority to the next generation.
“The seat of power in this home now rests with the new leader, Raila Junior, together with his mother. The mother will always guide, but the young man must stand firm and lead this home. That is our culture.” Oburu said.
According to Luo customs, the fourth day after burial carries deep meaning, a day when mourning gives way to renewal. It marks the end of the funeral period, when married daughters return to their homes and sons resume their daily lives.
“My brother was buried on Sunday last week, counting from that day, last night marked the fourth night. That is when the funeral officially ends,” Oburu said.
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