Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga was laid to rest on Sunday at his rural home, amidst a backdrop of political uncertainty in the country. Kenyan leaders, including President William Ruto, who had signed a political pact with Odinga earlier this year, emphasized the need for Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to remain united and potentially form or join the next government after the 2027 election.
Odinga, a renowned democracy reformer, was accorded full military honors, including a 17-gun salute by the army. He was buried next to his father, Jaramogi, a key figure in Kenya’s independence movement and the country’s first vice president. Thousands of Kenyans and dignitaries from across Africa attended the funeral, paying tribute to a man widely described as a “selfless pan-Africanist.”
The 80-year-old Odinga passed away in India on Wednesday, where he was receiving medical treatment. His body was received by thousands of mourners in Nairobi on Thursday, with four public viewing events held in the past few days. Unfortunately, these events were marred by stampedes, resulting in five deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Throughout his career, Odinga had entered into political agreements with three of Kenya’s five presidents, aiming to ease tensions after elections. Although he never succeeded in his five presidential campaigns, Odinga played a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape. President Ruto praised Odinga’s contributions, stating that he had helped “steady the country” after a political pact was signed in March this year.
Odinga’s party officials were divided in their tributes, with some committing to honor the pact with the government, while others hinted at a desire to distance themselves from former political rivals. Odinga’s influence extended beyond Kenya, with former African Union Deputy Chairperson Erastus Mwencha describing his impact as continental. As prime minister in 2010, Odinga played a key role in Kenya’s constitutional review, and his statesmanship has been hailed by dozens of world leaders since his passing.
Odinga is survived by his wife, Ida, and their children, Rosemary, Raila Junior, and Winnie. As Kenya navigates a period of political uncertainty, the legacy of Raila Odinga serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in shaping the country’s future. With the 2027 election on the horizon, the ODM party’s next steps will be closely watched, as they weigh their options and consider potential alliances.