Kenya came to a standstill on Friday as the country said goodbye to one of its most iconic leaders, Raila Amolo Odinga.
His flag-draped coffin was escorted through the streets of Nairobi in a moving military procession that drew thousands of mourners.
Led by military outriders and a ceremonial gun carriage, the convoy made its way from Parliament Buildings to Nyayo Stadium. Crowds lined the streets, waving flags and chanting “Baba!” , the name millions fondly called him.
Inside Nyayo Stadium, the atmosphere was emotional and electric. Thousands of Kenyans, dressed in orange , the color of his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party sang, danced and waved flags in celebration of a man whose life was dedicated to fighting for democracy and justice.
The event, full of military honor and national pride, felt like a moment of unity for the entire nation. Despite never becoming president after five attempts, Raila was honored with the respect and love that reflected his lifelong commitment to Kenya’s progress.
Security was tight, with officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service, and National Youth Service ensuring calm throughout the day. This came after emotional scenes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport a day earlier, when thousands had rushed to see the late leader’s body arrive from India.
Earlier in the morning, Raila’s body lay in state at Parliament Buildings. President William Ruto, top government officials and foreign dignitaries joined Kenyans from all walks of life to pay their last respects and sign a condolence book.
The funeral service, led by the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), was both touching and uplifting. Bishop David Kodia of ACK Bondo Diocese remembered Raila as a man of principle and courage.
“Raila loved his country deeply,” Bishop Kodia said.
“He didn’t win people over with money, he won them through his conviction.” His words drew loud applause and emotional cheers from the crowd.
Family members, including his wife Ida Odinga and their children, sat quietly as tributes flowed. Many mourners wept openly, while others sang freedom songs that reminded everyone of Raila’s decades-long fight for democracy.
Raila Odinga, 80, passed away on October 15 in Kerala, India, after a cardiac arrest. His body will be flown to Siaya on Saturday and laid to rest on Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo.
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