Kenya, 22 October 2025 - Luo Council of Elders Chairperson, Mzee Odungi Randa, has bestowed his blessings upon Jaoko Oburu, the son of Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga who is the brother to Kenya's gallant son the late Raila Amolo Odinga.
The symbolic gesture took place at Mzee Randa’s home in Nyando, Kisumu County, where Jaoko paid him a courtesy visit accompanied by a group of close friends.
In a traditional show of goodwill and recognition, Jaoko presented Mzee Randa with a ram, a culturally significant token often used in Luo customs to show respect and seek blessings from elders.
In return, Mzee Randa, who is one of the most revered figures in Luo leadership, offered his blessings to the young Oburu, commending him for upholding the traditions of the community and honouring the elders.
Mzee Randa, whose position is referred to as Ker traditionally, emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership and culture, urging the youth to remain grounded in their roots even as they pursue modern aspirations.
"A people without culture are lost people," Mzee Randa said during the brief ceremony, adding that the younger generation must carry forward the legacy of the forefathers.
This visit comes just days after the solemn burial of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics.
The timing of the meeting and blessing has sparked conversations around future political alignments within the Luo community, with some interpreting it as a sign of Jaoko’s growing public presence.
While Jaoko has yet to make any formal political declarations, the gesture by Mzee Randa is being viewed as a symbolic endorsement — one that could have ripple effects in the political landscape of Kenya and Nyanza in particular in the near future.
On Monday Jaoko took to his X handle, and wrote that he and his family were deeply moved by the love and support shown by Kenyans during the solemn mourning period of Odinga.
“Thank you to all friends, colleagues, and supporters who stood with us during this difficult time and joined us in giving Baba a memorable send-off," Jaoko posted.
“We deeply appreciate your presence, support, and the overwhelming messages of condolence shared both in person and online. Your love and solidarity have truly comforted our family."
Odinga was laid to rest on Sunday, 19 October 2025, at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, in an emotional ceremony attended by thousands of mourners led by President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, a section of opposition leaders, foreign dignitaries, and citizens from all walks of life who travelled from across the country to pay their last respects.
