A heated debate has erupted across Kenya after Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga claimed that her late brother, Raila Odinga, died knowing that many young people had turned against him.
Speaking during a memorial event in Bondo, Ruth emotionally revealed that it deeply hurt Raila to see the same youth he fought for attacking him online and branding him part of the political system he once opposed.
According to Ruth, the harsh words and mockery from Gen Zs wounded Raila, who felt misunderstood by the very generation he had spent his life empowering.
“He saw the same people he fought for turning their backs on him. It broke his heart,” Ruth said during her tribute.
She added that in his final days, the former Prime Minister was saddened by the growing disconnect between his lifelong ideals of democracy and the cynicism that defines today’s youth.
Ruth noted that Raila often lamented how patriotism and the spirit of struggle were slowly fading among young Kenyans.
Ruth urged Gen Zs to reflect on how they treat leaders who dedicate their lives to public service, reminding them that Raila’s sacrifices — imprisonment, resilience, and decades of leadership — built the freedoms they enjoy today.
She condemned what she described as “posthumous love,” accusing some Kenyans of hypocrisy for celebrating Raila in death after ridiculing him while he was alive.
Ruth urged the youth to honor true leadership by standing for truth and justice instead of chasing online clout.
Her remarks have divided Kenyans, with some agreeing that Gen Zs were too harsh on Raila, while others argue that criticism is part of democracy.
Still, her statements have reignited a national conversation about respect, gratitude, and generational accountability in Kenya’s political culture.
Ruth Odinga: Raila died knowing that Gen Zs preferred him dead. Gen Zs are now pouring their love for him when he is dead. pic.twitter.com/VTkVaXw8Hy
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) October 18, 2025
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