Raila Odinga to Lie in State at Parliament; Requiem Mass Friday, Burial Sunday
Kenya continues to mourn the passing of Raila Amollo Odinga, the veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, whose death has plunged the nation into deep sorrow. The National Funeral Committee, chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, has released the official programme detailing Raila’s final journey home.
Family’s Wish for Swift Burial
Speaking during a State Address on Wednesday, October 15, Kindiki revealed that Raila’s family had insisted on honouring his wish to be laid to rest 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, and the family has informed us that the timeline is 72 hours,” Kindiki announced.
Although the 72-hour mark would technically fall on Saturday, Kindiki clarified that logistical challenges had necessitated minor adjustments. “We had to accommodate factors like repatriating his body from a foreign country, which requires extra time and coordination,” he explained.
The Final Journey Begins
Raila’s body will arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 8:30 a.m., where President William Ruto and members of Raila’s family will receive it. From the airport, the body will be taken to Lee Funeral Home, then escorted to Parliament Buildings for public viewing between 12 noon and 5 p.m.
This solemn period will allow Kenyans from all walks of life to pay their final respects to a man who dedicated his life to democracy, justice, and national unity. Afterward, the body will return to Lee Funeral Home, where it will remain overnight.
State Funeral at Nyayo Stadium
Homecoming and Final Resting Place
Following the Kisumu viewing, Raila’s body will travel by road to Bondo, where it will rest overnight in his ancestral home. The final burial ceremony will take place on Sunday, October 19, conducted according to Anglican Church traditions.
Raila will be laid to rest at the family graveyard in Kango Ka Jaramogi, beside his late father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and son Fidel Odinga.
Nation in Mourning
The announcement of Raila’s passing has drawn emotional reactions from millions of Kenyans who viewed him as a symbol of resilience and hope. Crowds have gathered across the country, waving flags and singing freedom songs that defined his political journey.
President William Ruto earlier declared seven days of national mourning, directing that flags fly at half-mast until the burial day. “Kenya has lost one of its greatest sons. Raila’s legacy will live on in every dreamer who believes in a better Kenya,” the President said.
As the nation prepares for a historic farewell, the mood remains somber but united. Raila Odinga’s life, marked by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service to the people, has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s political and social fabric.
His journey home will not only mark the end of an era but also the beginning of a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
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Raila Odinga to Lie in State at Parliament; Requiem Mass Friday, Burial Sunday
