The Government of Kenya has unveiled the official portrait of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, which will now be used in all condolence messages issued through official state communication platforms.
In a statement released by Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura, all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been directed to include the official portrait in their condolence communications. The move, Mwaura said, aims to standardize state communication and honor Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic journey.
“All Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are hereby instructed to use the official portrait of the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga in all messages of condolences on their official channels and platforms of communication,” read the statement.
The directive takes immediate effect and is to be implemented without exception across all government communication outlets. The Office of the Government Spokesman also urged all MDAs to request access to the portrait and ensure that their messages reflect the dignity, tone, and respect befitting national leadership.
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, was a pivotal figure in the country’s political transformation and regional diplomacy. He also served as the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development.
Preparations for his state funeral are underway. A national service will be held on Friday at Nyayo Stadium, with dignitaries and VVIPs from across Africa expected to attend. His body will later be taken to Kisumu for public viewing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo before proceeding to Bondo for an overnight vigil.
According to the State Funeral Committee co-chair, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, the burial will be conducted on Sunday in a private Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) ceremony attended by close family and select guests.
