Raila’s Body to Stay Overnight at Lee Funeral Home Instead of Karen Home in Latest Changes
The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga will spend the night at Lee Funeral Home, not at his Karen residence as earlier planned. The unexpected change was confirmed late Friday evening by the National Funeral Committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother.
Major Change in Funeral Programme
In a statement released by the ODM Party, the committee cited unavoidable circumstances as the reason for the adjustment in the late leader’s funeral programme.
“The National Funeral Committee wishes to announce to the public that due to unavoidable circumstances, the body of H.E. the late Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga will not be taken to his Karen residence for an overnight stay as earlier planned,” the statement read.
“Instead, after the public viewing that is currently going on at the Nyayo National Stadium, it will be taken back to Lee Funeral Home for preservation in readiness for airlifting to Kisumu tomorrow (Saturday, 18/10/2025) morning. We apologise for the inconvenience caused,” the ODM statement continued.
The announcement came after hours of confusion among mourners who had gathered along Nairobi’s roads, expecting to accompany the body to the Karen home.
From Airport to Funeral Home: A Chaotic Journey
Initially, Raila’s body was scheduled to be taken to Lee Funeral Home immediately after landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning. However, the plan was derailed when tens of thousands of Kenyans flooded the airport, lining the highways and blocking the motorcade that was to proceed to the funeral home and later to Parliament Buildings for public viewing.
Despite the adjustments, the viewing began much later than expected — starting at 4:00 pm instead of noon — and stretched deep into the night.
“The turnout was beyond imagination. It was a sea of humanity,” said one police officer managing the crowd.
“Even with tight security, it was impossible to control the emotions of the people who came to say goodbye.”
Chaos and Injuries at Kasarani
Earlier in the day, chaos erupted at Kasarani Stadium as anxious mourners tried to force their way into the venue. The police fired teargas to disperse the surging crowd, resulting in dozens of injuries and widespread panic.
According to Dr. Ouma Oluga, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, over 100 people were treated for injuries sustained during the stampede and clashes.
“We treated around 100 individuals who suffered soft tissue injuries, fractures, and breathing complications due to the commotion,” Dr. Oluga confirmed.
“Fortunately, most were discharged after receiving medical attention.”
Despite the tension, thousands continued to queue patiently through the night, determined to bid farewell to the man many hailed as the people’s president.
“We will wait, even if it takes all night,” said a mourner wrapped in the Kenyan flag.
“Baba stood for us all his life. The least we can do is stand for him now.”
Public Viewing to Continue at Nyayo Stadium
Following the State Funeral at Nyayo Stadium, the committee announced that public viewing of Raila’s body would continue on Friday afternoon, allowing mourners who missed earlier sessions another opportunity to pay their respects.
“The viewing is currently ongoing,” Kindiki said during the briefing.
“We understand that many could not access the venue yesterday, so we are ensuring everyone gets a chance today.”
Security remained tight around the stadium, with Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel overseeing proceedings to maintain order. Inside the stadium, songs of sorrow and praise filled the air as Kenyans waved flags and held portraits of Raila.
“He was our voice,” one mourner wept.
“Even in death, Baba unites us.”
Plans for Kisumu and Bondo
The funeral committee confirmed that after preservation at Lee Funeral Home, Raila’s body will be flown to Kisumu early Saturday morning. Upon arrival, it will be taken to the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, where another public viewing will take place from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
The burial will be conducted under the Anglican Church rites, with Raila laid to rest beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son Fidel Odinga.
“The people of Nyanza are ready to welcome home their son,” Oburu Odinga said earlier.
“His final journey will be marked with dignity, unity, and love.”
Kenya United in Grief
Across the nation, grief continues to sweep through towns and villages. In Nairobi, Kisumu, and Siaya, thousands have held night vigils, waving candles and singing liberation songs in Raila’s honor. Social media platforms remain flooded with messages of condolence and memories of his political courage.
President William Ruto earlier declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across all government institutions.
“Kenya has lost a statesman, a patriot, and a true democrat,” Ruto said in his national address.
“We stand with Mama Ida and the Odinga family during this painful time.”
In Kisumu, shops have closed early as the lakeside city prepares to receive Raila’s body. Banners, murals, and billboards with his portrait have been erected along major streets.
“The air feels heavy,” said a Kisumu resident.
“It’s like the sun itself is mourning.”
Hope Amid Sorrow
“Baba dedicated his life to peace and justice,” Kindiki reminded.
“Let us send him off with the dignity he deserves.”
Despite the sorrow, a sense of pride fills the air — pride for a man who spent his life fighting for democracy, equality, and national unity.
“He taught us that Kenya belongs to all of us,” said another mourner.
“Even in death, Baba brings us together.”
As dawn approaches on Saturday, all eyes now turn to Kisumu, where the lakeside city awaits to welcome its hero home one last time.
ALSO READ: Mourners to Get Another Chance to View Raila’s Body on Friday — Funeral Committee]
Raila’s Body to Stay Overnight at Lee Funeral Home Instead of Karen Home in Latest Changes
