KENYA: Nation Unites In Farewell, State Funeral Of Raila Odinga Underway At Nyayo Stadium

By Lapit Moses Punyuah, Nairobi, Kenya

The State Funeral and National Memorial Service of Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, is currently underway at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, drawing thousands of mourners from across the country and beyond.

The solemn ceremony has brought together the nation’s top leadership, led by President William Ruto, Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and the Speakers of both Houses of Parliament. Also in attendance are Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, Governors, members of the diplomatic corps, and dignitaries representing regional and international partners.

The event marks the culmination of a historic week of mourning and national reflection following the passing of the veteran opposition leader and statesman, whose body arrived in the country from India on Thursday morning. The late Odinga’s return sparked unprecedented emotional scenes, with thousands of mourners lining streets, storming the airport, and gathering in various locations to pay their final respects to the man many described as the conscience of the nation.

Today’s State Funeral has been punctuated by hymns, prayers, and tributes celebrating Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy as a freedom fighter, reformist, and unifying force in Kenya’s democratic journey. The national flag flies at half-mast across all public buildings, military bases, and Kenyan missions abroad, a mark of deep respect for the fallen leader.

Friday was officially declared a Public Holiday by the Ministry of Interior to allow Kenyans to follow and participate in the memorial service.

The body of the late Raila Odinga will on Saturday be flown to Kisumu, where a public viewing will take place before being transported to Bondo for burial on Sunday, in accordance with Anglican rites, fulfilling his wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his passing.

As the nation gathers in grief and gratitude, one message echoes across the stadium and the streets, that Raila Odinga’s spirit, courage, and vision for a just Kenya will live on for generations.