Speaking during an emotional evening briefing on Thursday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who co-chairs Raila’s funeral committee, confirmed that the public viewing would resume at noon on Friday.
“There will be a public viewing after the State event tomorrow,” Kindiki said. “Mourners will get a second opportunity from noon, to as far as possible, to allow as many Kenyans as possible to pay their last respects.”
His statement was met with applause and sighs of relief, as many Kenyans had been disappointed by the late arrival of the body at the stadium on Thursday.
Kenyans Get Another Chance: Public Viewing for Raila Odinga Set for Friday
Late Arrival and Long Wait
Raila’s body arrived at Kasarani Stadium at around 4:00 pm, long after thousands of mourners had already taken their positions from early morning. Viewing started at 5:30 pm and went late into the night, though many had already left in frustration.
“We came at dawn, but by evening, we were exhausted and had to leave,” said one mourner, holding a small Kenyan flag.
This prompted the committee to organize an additional viewing session to give every Kenyan a chance to bid farewell to the man many called Baba wa Taifa (Father of the Nation).
Next Briefing Scheduled
The committee will issue another briefing on Friday at 6:30 pm to provide updates on the final funeral preparations.
Nation Bids Farewell: Raila Odinga’s Final Journey Home Begins
Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother and co-chair of the committee, was absent from Thursday’s presser as he was in Siaya making arrangements for the burial. He was represented by Dr. Akinyi Wenwa, their sister, alongside other family members.
“We thank Kenyans for their patience and love during this difficult time,” Dr. Akinyi said. “The family appreciates every candle, every prayer, and every tear shared.”
The committee confirmed that several Heads of State and foreign delegations are expected to attend the ceremony, honoring Raila’s lifetime contribution to democracy and national unity.
“Kenya will host dignitaries from across Africa and beyond,” Kindiki stated. “Raila’s leadership inspired generations, not only here but globally.”
Raila’s Wish: A Quick Burial
Deputy President Kindiki also reaffirmed that Raila had requested to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.
“We have been advised as a committee by the family that it was the wish of Raila to be buried as soon as possible,” Kindiki revealed. “The family has informed us that the timeline is 72 hours.”
After Friday’s State Funeral, Raila’s body will be flown to Kisumu on Saturday morning. A public viewing will be held at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, allowing residents of the lakeside city to pay their last respects.
Kenya to Stand Still on Friday in Memory of Raila Odinga
“Bondo will welcome its son home one final time,” Kindiki added solemnly. “We are ensuring the burial honors his wishes and the traditions of his people.”
