Ida Odinga: Quiet strength behind Raila long, storied political career
From the classroom to the national stage, she upheld family through Raila’s long detentions. Through the League of Kenya Women Voters, Ida inspired generations to lead through life’s trials...
✨ Key Highlights
The article highlights the significant, albeit often understated, influence of Ida Odinga, wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, throughout his extensive political career and Kenya's democratic struggles. Born Ida Anyango Oyoo on August 24, 1950, her journey began with aspirations to be a teacher before becoming a prominent figure in her own right.
- Ida Odinga's enduring strength and advocacy have been a quiet force behind Raila Odinga's political longevity.
- Her early life aspiration was to become a teacher.
- She was born on August 24, 1950, and later became known as a leader and advocate.
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Political Career of Raila Odinga Defined by Key Alliances and Party Leadership - October 2025
The political career of the late Raila Odinga, who unsuccessfully sought Kenya’s presidency five times, was highlighted by his long-standing alliance with Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who served as his running mate. In contrast, his political alliance with President William Ruto began to unravel after the contentious 2007 General Election. Throughout his extensive political career and Kenya's democratic struggles, his wife, Ida Odinga, provided significant, albeit often understated, influence. Odinga transformed the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) into a powerhouse, and his sudden death is expected to cause a major political shift in Nyanza and Western Kenya. His passing leaves the ODM party facing an uncertain future without its long-standing leader.
