This archive report was first published on 12 July 2020.
On Saturday morning, Ohangla singer Lady Maureen, whose real name is Maureen Achieng, passed away in Migori, where she was recuperating after being discharged from hospital days earlier.
Her death sparked a mix of reactions from fans and politicians, including opposition leader Raila Odinga, who sent a message of condolence via social media.
However, a section of Kenyans blasted the politicians for 'not doing enough' to help the singer when she was on her deathbed.
But ODM communications director Phillip Etale has sought to clear the air on the matter, claiming that the opposition leader and his wife Ida sent an unspecified amount of money to the singer's family.
'I feel bad when people choose to go on social media to brand him all sorts of names,' Etale said. 'When Lady Maureen, the queen of Ohangla music fell sick, her family and friends reached out to Mr Odinga for help. He sent money to have her taken to the hospital for treatment.'
Etale also claims Odinga's wife visited the deceased singer in hospital.
'His wife Mama Ida Odinga has been more than a mother to Lady Maureen,' Etale said. 'She visited her in hospital and all through her sickness, Mama Ida has been keeping tabs on her to find out how she is faring on.'
Etale has also explained that Odinga is 'not able' to help each and everyone in need of assistance from the community.
