Keep Quiet or Go Away - Fury as Ida Odinga Confronts Youths Who Disrupted Funeral Service in Bondo

A tense moment unfolded during the burial of Beryl Odinga in Bondo after a section of young mourners caused disruption, forcing Ida Odinga to intervene and demand order. 

What began as a calm farewell turned dramatic when noise from outside the funeral tent interrupted speeches and prayers.

The burial ceremony took place on Saturday and brought together family members, close relatives, and notable political guests. 

The Odinga family had gathered to lay Beryl to rest, but mourners were distracted after some youths began chanting and shouting during the proceedings.

Observing the growing disturbance, Ida Odinga rose from her seat and firmly addressed the situation. She warned the youths, urging them to either remain silent or leave the funeral grounds.

Ida reminded those gathered that the day was not for political contest or public rivalry, but meant to honour the late Beryl. 

She expressed disappointment that some young people had arrived with political motives instead of showing sympathy.

She stated clearly that no one would be allowed to turn a burial into a platform for political visibility.

“I want young people outside the tent to listen. If you cannot keep quiet, please walk away,” Ida said in a firm voice while addressing the crowd.

She emphasised that she was speaking on behalf of the Odinga family, asking for peace and silence throughout the service.

After the intervention, security personnel moved around the venue and calm was restored. Speakers were then able to continue giving tributes without further interruption.

Beryl died on November 25 after a period of declining health. Her passing came only months after the death of her elder brother, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. 

She had lived both in Kenya and Zimbabwe, where she worked in public service roles for several years.

Beryl’s life had been marked by personal struggles, especially during her marriage to the late Aggrey Ambala, a former Member of Parliament. 

Past published accounts reveal that the relationship was troubled. She left the marriage with support from her family and later settled abroad with her children.

Her move to Zimbabwe gave her space to rebuild her life and pursue her career. Although she later returned home, she maintained strong ties with close relatives and remained active in family engagements.

The funeral attracted a wide attendance, with leaders from Siaya County, family friends and community members travelling to pay their respects. 

Tributes described Beryl as quiet, intelligent and committed to her family.

Speakers remembered her as a strong woman who overcame hardship and created new opportunities for herself and her children.

Beryl was finally laid to rest at her parents’ home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, as per the family's decision.
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