By Waren Christopher
Raila Odinga Junior has been officially installed as the head of the Odinga family, in a significant development within one of Kenya's most prominent political dynasties.
Junior takes over from his late father Raila Odinga, who was buried in Bondo, Siaya County on Sunday.
The ceremony was conducted in accordance with the Luo mourning rites. Sitting on a traditional stool, Odinga Junior was shaved as a way of signifying the end of the mourning period, marking the beginning of a new life as the head of the family.
He then put on traditional regalia. Armed with a traditional Luo shield and covered with animal skin, Junior then performed the traditional warrior song chanting, “Jowi! Jowi! Jowi!”
According to Luo traditions, Raila Junior who is the surviving son of Raila after the passing of his elder son Fidel Castro Odinga in 2015, now assumes the role of the family’s head.
The move is said ‘to be not political’ but a way of preserving the sacred traditions of the Luo community.
The Odinga family, led by his late father, veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister has been a central force in Kenyan politics for decades.
The installation of the younger Odinga ensures the family of Raila Odinga has a leader that stands as a representation of the family both spiritually and culturally.
“Installation of Raila Odinga Junior as the Head of Raila Odinga Family marks a significant moment in the continuation of a great legacy,” said Siaya governor James Orengo.
In attendance during the event was the elder brother of Raila, Oburu Odinga who said that he still remained the overall leader of the Odinga family, a role he has held for decades from the death of their father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, in 1994.
The event was attended by family members, relatives and community elders.
