Today, Kenya pauses to honor one of its most influential leaders, Raila Amollo Odinga, during his state funeral at Nyayo National Stadium. The event, attended by thousands of mourners, will bring together government officials, world leaders, and ordinary Kenyans united in grief and admiration.
Raila’s state funeral, organized and fully funded by the government, follows long-standing state traditions that have been reserved for Kenya’s most iconic figures. From a military procession to a solemn church service, here is what Kenyans should expect during the ceremony.
What to Expect During Raila’s State Funeral
Raila’s state funeral will be marked by military honors, national mourning, and religious rituals that symbolize the country’s deep respect for his legacy. The ceremony reflects Kenya’s tradition of paying tribute to leaders who shaped the nation’s history. Every moment, from the lying in state to the final journey to Bondo, has been carefully planned to reflect Raila’s stature as a statesman and reformist who inspired generations.
Body Lying in State and Final Public Viewing
A key feature of Raila’s state funeral is his body lying in state—a tradition reserved for national heroes. His body, placed in a flag-draped coffin and guarded by the military, allows Kenyans to pay their final respects. On Friday, the body lay in state at the Parliament Buildings, following a short delay caused by logistical challenges during its repatriation from India.
President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and other senior officials led the public in viewing Raila’s body at Kasarani Stadium on Thursday, October 16. The practice mirrors the funerals of former presidents Mwai Kibaki, Daniel arap Moi, and Jomo Kenyatta, whose bodies also lay in state at Parliament.
Today’s public viewing at Nyayo Stadium will allow ordinary Kenyans, local leaders, and visiting dignitaries to honor the late Prime Minister before the final rites.
Military Honors and National Mourning
A state funeral in Kenya is incomplete without military participation. During Raila’s state funeral, a full military procession will escort his body into Nyayo Stadium. Soldiers will act as pallbearers and maintain ceremonial guard throughout the event.
Though not yet confirmed, the military may perform a gun salute or rifle firing—a symbolic final tribute reserved for national leaders. This solemn gesture underscores the magnitude of Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy and his decades-long struggle for justice and equality.
The nation remains in a period of official mourning declared by President Ruto. For seven days, all national flags are flying at half-mast at State House, public buildings, Kenyan embassies, and military installations. In his directive, the President also instructed that flags be removed from official vehicles, a mark of deep respect for the fallen leader.
Church Service, Cultural Rites, and State Protocol
Religious and cultural traditions form another core part of Raila’s state funeral. The Anglican Church of Kenya will lead the official service at Nyayo Stadium, scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and run until 11 a.m. The ceremony will feature hymns, prayers, and tributes highlighting Raila’s strong Christian faith and humanitarian work.
Running alongside the church service, Luo cultural rites will be observed in recognition of Raila’s heritage. The blending of faith and culture reflects the late leader’s deep connection to both his people and his spiritual beliefs.
State protocol will be strictly observed throughout the event. The government is overseeing all logistics, security, and dignitary arrangements. Every aspect—from the seating of presidents and international guests to the order of speeches—has been carefully structured to maintain dignity and order.
During the service, tributes will come from key speakers, including President Ruto, Raila’s widow Ida Odinga, family members, and select African dignitaries. Their messages will celebrate Raila’s legacy of resilience, leadership, and sacrifice for Kenya’s democracy.
The Final Journey to Bondo
After the Nyayo Stadium ceremony, Raila’s body will be transported to his Karen home for an overnight vigil. The following day, a convoy will escort the body to Bondo, Siaya County, where his final burial will take place.
In Bondo, thousands are expected to gather at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University grounds for a final farewell before the burial at his ancestral home. Local cultural leaders and clergy will lead the final rites, marking the end of a life that defined Kenya’s political landscape for more than four decades.
Raila Odinga’s state funeral is more than a national ceremony—it is a unifying moment for a country saying goodbye to a man who fought tirelessly for democracy and justice. His final journey from Nyayo Stadium to Bondo will close a remarkable chapter in Kenya’s history, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape generations to come.
