By Kamadi Amata

A significant cultural ceremony has taken place at former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s Opoda farm in Bondo, marking the installation of Raila Odinga Junior as the new head of the home.

Senator Oburu Odinga, speaking as the cultural head of the broader Odinga family, clarified that the event was not political but focused on preserving sacred Luo traditions and the family’s place within them.

“The seat of power in this home now rests with the new leader, Raila Junior, together with his mother,” Oburu declared. “The mother will always be there to offer guidance and wisdom, but the young man must stand firm and lead this home. That is our culture.”

He explained that he remains the overall cultural leader of the Odinga clan. Oburu noted that according to Luo tradition, the fourth day after burial holds special significance, marking the official end of mourning and the beginning of new responsibilities.

The ceremony included a traditional shaving ritual, symbolizing renewal and the start of new duties. “Junior will go through the ritual,” Oburu explained, adding that it would begin with a small shave by one of his grandmothers, after which he would receive “instruments of power” affirming his new role.

He emphasized the importance of the ritual, stating it was rooted in culture and faith, not superstition. “This is not witchcraft, it is simply a blessing, the way our people have always done it. Religion does not stand against culture; the two must go hand in hand,” he affirmed.