The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has expressed solidarity with the Odinga family following the passing of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, sister to Party Leader Oburu Oginga and the late founding Party Leader Raila Amolo Odinga.
In its condolence message, the party said it was “deeply saddened” by her death, describing it as a difficult moment for the Odinga family and the wider ODM fraternity.
ODM remembered Beryl as “a hardworking and dedicated public servant” who, despite her prominent background, “chose to live a quiet life away from the glare of cameras.”
The party noted that her death comes 40 days after the loss of Raila Odinga, adding that it stands with the family during this period of mourning.
“We join the rest of the country in condoling with the Odinga’s,” the statement read.
“May her soul RIP.”
Beryl died on November 25 while receiving treatment in the hospital.
Confirming the news, Ruth Odinga said the family was devastated by the loss.
“It is with a heavy heart, but accepting the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng Odinga,” she said.
Ruth described Beryl as a devoted mother and a pillar within the family.
“Beryl was a loving mother to Ami Auma, Chizi and Taure,” she said. “She was sister to Senator Oburu Oginga, Rt Hon Raila Odinga, Akinyi Wenwa and myself, among others.”
She also acknowledged the extended family who shared in the grief, noting: “She was sister-in-law to Dr Anne Oburu, Dr Canon Ida Odinga, Hon Tabu Osewe and Judy Oburu.”
Ruth said the family was taking comfort in faith despite the deep sorrow.
“While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms,” she said.
“We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we were privileged to share with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”
She has maintained a relatively low public profile compared to some of her siblings, preferring not to engage in active politics.
She made history as the first Black Town Clerk of Mutare, the third-largest city in Zimbabwe.
In 2020, Beryl was appointed Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC).
Overall, Beryl Achieng Odinga stands out as a trained professional who has held leadership roles across public institutions.
Despite her family’s political prominence, she has charted a relatively private path while contributing to public service in Kenya and beyond.