Kenya has bid farewell to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was laid to rest at his rural home on Sunday. The 80‑year‑old leader died in India on Wednesday while receiving medical treatment, and his body was brought to Nairobi on Thursday, where thousands of mourners gathered for four public viewings. The ceremonies attracted large crowds, and stampedes resulted in five deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Odinga’s burial was attended by thousands of Kenyans and dignitaries from across Africa, all paying respects to the democracy reformer. He was accorded full military honors, including a 17‑gun salute, and was interred beside his father, Jaramogi Odinga, a key figure in Kenya’s independence movement. He is survived by his wife, Ida, and their children, Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie.
During the funeral, Kenyan leaders, including President William Ruto, stressed the importance of keeping Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party united. Ruto, who signed a political pact with Odinga earlier this year, pledged to support the party’s cohesion and urged it to either form or join the next government after the 2027 election, honoring their agreement.
Throughout his career, Odinga played a pivotal role in Kenyan politics, entering into political agreements with three of the country’s five presidents to ease post‑election tensions. Although he never won any of his five presidential campaigns, his influence extended beyond Kenya’s borders. Former African Union Deputy Chairperson Erastus Mwencha described his impact as continental, noting Odinga’s mediation of political impasses across Africa and his unsuccessful bid for the AU chairmanship.
As Kenya navigates a period of political uncertainty, Odinga’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation. With the 2027 election on the horizon, the nation’s leaders will need to work together to ensure a peaceful and stable transition. Tributes from world leaders have hailed his statesmanship and commitment to democracy.
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