Speaking during an interview on October 23, 2025, Khalwale said Raila made the decision shortly after the death of his son Fidel Odinga, instructing Rosemary to prepare for leadership.
“I can comfortably, without fear of contradiction, confirm to Kenyans that Baba’s choice among his children for who would succeed him was not Raila Junior, was not Winnie. After Fidel died, Raila told Rosemary to prepare to become the MP of Kibra,” Khalwale stated.
He recalled personally escorting Rosemary to her first political rally at Kamkunji Grounds in Kibra, describing her as confident, articulate, and ready to serve.
According to Khalwale, Raila personally encouraged his daughter to enter politics, viewing her as the natural heir to his leadership mantle.
The senator revealed that Raila’s plan for Rosemary was disrupted by her sudden illness and loss of eyesight, which forced her to withdraw from active politics.
“Raila would go to South Africa to visit her in hospital, and when he returned, he would tell me, ‘Your friend has greeted you. She’s going to be well.’ That is the girl Raila wanted to succeed him,” Khalwale recounted.
His revelation has intensified public discussion about who among Raila’s children might take over his political legacy following his death.
While Winnie Odinga’s fiery speech during her father’s burial hinted at her own political ambitions, Khalwale’s remarks suggest that Rosemary was Raila’s true choice—a decision made years before illness halted her journey.
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