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Oburu reveals failed attempt to have Jaramogi quit politics

"He told me, my son, I've lived with you all these years but it appears you don't know me."

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by JAMES MBAKA

News20 January 2024 - 14:52
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In Summary


  • Oburu detailed that he had seen his father lose a lot of weight and become emaciated for the sake of politics.
  • However, Jaramogi assured him that he had decided to serve the people and he would not back down.
Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga during the 30th Anniversary of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga at Ofafa Memorial Hall on January 20, 2024.

Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga has detailed memorable moments he spent with his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

Speaking on Saturday during Jaramogi's memorial service in Kisumu, Oburu recalled a moment he disagreed with him.

The Siaya Senator said he failed to agree with his father when he asked him to quit politics.

Oburu detailed that he had seen his father lose a lot of weight and become emaciated for the sake of politics.

However, Jaramogi assured him that he had decided to serve the people and he would not back down.

Oburu said Jaramogi was a committed man to his family and the country.

"When he died, there was a time I disagreed with him because I told him, these people have given you too much trouble, you have been in dentition and came out so emaciated and lost so much weight because of all the thoughts in prison, why don't you just leave politics alone and concentrate on your businesses," he said.

Oburu further revealed that his father was staunch with his stand in politics.

He said that Jaramogi informed him that politics is much more dear to his heart than everything else.

"He told me, my son, I have lived with you all these years but it appears you don't know me. You don't know the real Jaramogi. All those things you are talking about including business only take less than a quarter of my heart. Everything else goes to the people. Politics is my life and I will not leave it," he added.

Oburu is Azimio leader Raila Odinga's elder brother.

Jaramogi was a prominent political figure and one of Kenya’s freedom fighters who helped secure the country’s independence.

He was appointed minister for home affairs in 1963, and in 1964 became vice president under founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.

January 20, 2024 marks exactly 30 years since the nation's founding Vice President died.

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