Nairobi is preparing to receive the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away in India while undergoing treatment. A Kenya Airways flight carrying his remains, accompanied by family members and senior government officials led by President Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 8:30 a.m. President William Ruto will receive the body, which will then be taken to Lee Funeral Home before being moved to Parliament for public viewing from midday to 5:00 p.m.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, co-chair of the burial committee, announced that a State funeral service will be held on Friday, followed by an overnight vigil at Raila’s Karen residence. The family has requested that the burial take place within 72 hours, and the committee has agreed on an expedited process that balances the family’s needs and community traditions. The body will be flown to Kisumu on Saturday for public viewing at Moi Stadium between 9 am and 3 pm, before being transported to Bondo for a final overnight vigil. The burial will take place on Sunday morning at his Bondo home in Siaya County, conducted by the Anglican Church.
Kindiki appealed for peace and unity as the nation mourns, urging Kenyans to honor Odinga’s message of tolerance and national cohesion. Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila’s brother, also spoke, calling for a dignified send-off and reflection on his life and legacy. President Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad. The Deputy President described the moment as solemn, pledging to give Odinga a farewell befitting a statesman who defined Kenya’s democratic journey.
The burial arrangements are a testament to Odinga’s significance in Kenyan politics and his impact on the country’s democratic development. As the nation comes together to mourn and celebrate his life, the government has urged citizens to maintain peace and unity. The next few days will be crucial in honoring Odinga’s legacy, with various events and ceremonies planned to pay tribute to his contributions to Kenya’s history.