NATION BIDS FAREWELL AS RAILA ODINGA’S STATE FUNERAL BEGINS AT NYAYO STADIUM

The solemn proceedings began with a military convoy departing from Parliament Buildings shortly after 9 a.m., carrying the flag-draped casket of the late Raila Odinga.

 The procession, led by military police outriders, ceremonial guards, and a full military band, moved along Uhuru Highway under heavy security, with thousands of Kenyans lining the streets waving national flags and olive branches a final salute to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.

 The casket was borne on a ceremonial gun carriage flanked by officers in full dress uniform, symbolizing the state’s highest honors for the democratic icon affectionately known as “Baba” ​.

At Parliament, Raila’s body had been received earlier by senior government officials, religious leaders, and his family. Mourners from all walks of life paid their respects as the body lay in a brief lying-in-state ceremony before the final journey to Nyayo Stadium, where the main funeral service was held ​.

The state funeral ceremony at Nyayo Stadium featured full military honors and included a sermon led by the Anglican Church of Kenya, tributes from Raila Odinga’s family, and condolences from national and foreign leaders.

 Security was tight following challenges during an earlier public viewing at Kasarani Stadium, ensuring order amid the outpouring of grief by Kenyans ​.

The prayers and reflections were led by Right Reverend Prof. David Hellington Kodia, Bishop of Bondo, the late leader’s home region ​.

Kodia said the state funeral held in honor of Raila is a fitting recognition of his impactful life and the legacy he leaves behind.

“Their is no one who would have deserved this state funeral more than the lste Raila Odinga “said Kodia

At the state funeral of Raila Odinga, his wife, Mama Idah, his brother, Oburu, his son, Raila Odinga Junior, and daughters , Rosemary Odingaand Winnie Odinga, delivered deeply emotional tributes that highlighted their father’s legacy and personal impact on their lives.

Mama Ida Odinga, in her eulogy, spoke of her husband’s unwavering commitment to the people of Kenya and his relentless pursuit of justice and equality.

 She reminisced about their life together, highlighting his warmth, humor, and the sacrifices they made for the sake of the country.

 Her voice, though filled with sorrow, resonated with strength and resilience, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother, shared personal anecdotes, painting a picture of a man deeply devoted to his family and his country. He spoke of Raila’s charisma, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his unwavering belief in a better Kenya.

 Oburu’s tribute was a blend of pride, admiration, and the shared grief of a family mourning the loss of a beloved brother and leader.

“My intention today is to tell you that even though my brother was younger than me I respected him as a leder, “Oburu said.

Raila Odinga Junior paid a moving tribute emphasizing the courage and hope his father inspired throughout his political journey.

“My father was many things to others, but to me, he was just dad. He was my hero, and his legacy lives in me. I am my father’s son, “he said.

 He spoke fondly of the man behind the public figure, sharing personal memories that portrayed Raila as not just a leader but a loving father and a symbol of resilience.

“I will miss watching arsenal with my dad, “Junior said.

 Junior’s speech captured the enduring spirit and values his father lived by, inspiring many Kenyans who mourned his loss.

During the ceremony, Raila Junior was seen holding his father’s iconic fly whisk and Jaramogi hat symbols of the Odinga political dynasty signaling a continuation of the family’s political legacy and his role in it .

Rosemary Odinga, known for her calm and composed demeanor, also expressed her sorrow and admiration for her father’s sacrifices in fighting for democracy and justice.

She reflected on the personal lessons and values Raila instilled in his children, emphasizing his dedication to Kenya and his unwavering commitment to the people.

 Her tribute acknowledged the profound loss to the nation and her family, portraying Raila as a father who touched many lives beyond politics.

“You were my friend and someone who understood me and the whole family. When i received the message of your death, i asked myself should I sot on the floor or table, “she remarked.

Winnie Odinga, the youngest of Raila’s children, delivered a moving tribute that captured the essence of her father’s legacy.

“The king is dead but long live the crown, “Winnie Odinga.

 Her tribute was a powerful reminder of the human side of a political icon, a man who was loved, respected, and deeply missed.

“I don’t know who I will miss more, my dad or my superhero. To the world, you were known by many names: Aluo, Jaramogi’s son, Tinga, Agwambo, Nyundo, Jakom, Baba Fidel, but in the end, they called you Baba. To me, you were simply Dad. I’m the luckiest girl in the world,” said Winnie.

The tributes from family provided a glimpse into the heart of Raila Odinga, a man who will be remembered for his courage, his vision, and s unwavering dedication to the people of Kenya.

Attendees included President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and heads of state from neighboring countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia.

Several current and former presidents attended the state funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga held at Nyayo National Stadium on 27th October 2026. The current President William Ruto led the dignitaries.

Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta also attended. Other heads of state included President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and President Taye Atske Selassie of Ethiopia. Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete was present, representing another former leader.

 Some current leaders like Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu and South Sudan President Salva Kiir sent their representatives. The funeral drew significant regional and international attendance in honor of Raila Odinga’s legacy ​.

Apart from President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, several high-profile leaders attended the state funeral of the former Prime Minister.

Among them were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho (Mining), Kipchumba Murkomen (Roads and Transport), and William Kabogo (ICT).

Also present were key opposition figures, including former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, PLP leader Martha Karua, former Public Service CS Justin Muturi, DAP–K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and former UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi.

President William Ruto also honored Raila Odinga with a tribute highlighting his significant contributions to Kenya’s democracy and political landscape.

Ruto praised Raila’s enduring commitment to the people and the country, reflecting on Raila’s role as a leader who championed the voice of the common citizen.

“My dear  brother Raila Odinga as we bid you farewell, we do so with gratitude, we salute you for the great man you were, “Said the president.

The President acknowledged Raila’s importance in shaping Kenya’s political direction and called upon the nation to continue building on the foundation Raila laid in pursuit of justice and development.

“Even in his death, his presence endures. He walked among us as a man but also, charged amongst us as a movement, “he continued.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta paid a heartfelt and moving tribute He described Raila as a “friend, brother, and true son of Kenya,” whose passing leaves a great void in the nation.

“Rafiki yangu lakini mmi nlimpenda kama ndugu yangu, “Uhuru Said.

Uhuru reflected on their journey from political rivals to partners in national unity following the 2018 Handshake. He praised Raila as a patriot devoted to justice and peace and expressed deep personal loss, calling him an invaluable ally and saying, “I have lost a friend and a brother.”

“Raila Odinga was never tribal,he loved all the peole of kenya. This is evident in the friendships he built across the country. Raila valued you for your thoughts and words not because of the color of your,”he remarked.

He extended condolences to Raila’s family and acknowledged their sacrifices, affirming that Raila’s legacy endures beyond political battles through peace building.

The state funeral served as a moment of national mourning and reflection, a time to honor the life and legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the service of his country.

After the funeral service, the body was planned to return to Lee Funeral Home and then to Raila’s residence in Karen for an overnight vigil.

 On Saturday, October 28 2025 the remains will be transported to Kisumu, Raila’s political stronghold on the shores of Lake Victoria, where the public will have an opportunity to pay homage before the burial on Sunday at his farm in Bondo, Siaya County.

The family honored his wish for burial to take place within 72 hours of passing, marking an end to the nation’s official mourning period ​.