The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday morning for his State Funeral, marking one of the most emotional moments of the national farewell.
Dressed in black, the family’s sombre appearance reflected the immense grief they continue to bear following the loss of a man many Kenyans revered as a father of the nation. Mama Ida Odinga, Raila’s widow, appeared visibly shaken as she was gently supported by her daughter Winnie Odinga, who walked beside her in a touching show of solidarity.
Mourners inside the stadium waved handkerchiefs and Kenyan flags in a heartfelt gesture of support as the family made their way to the VIP section. They were accompanied by close allies including Safina Party leader Jimmy Wanjigi and lawyer Willis Otieno, both of whom have been long-time associates of the Odinga family.
Their arrival came shortly after that of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, underscoring the unity of family, friends, and state in honouring Raila’s towering political and social legacy.
Earlier in the morning, the body of the former Prime Minister had left Parliament Buildings for Nyayo Stadium in a solemn military procession. Pallbearers from the Kenya Defence Forces carried the flag-draped casket, while a ceremonial guard of honour stood at attention as the hearse departed.
Crowds lined the streets of Nairobi, waving flags, twigs, and portraits of Raila as the convoy passed by. Inside the stadium, a sea of white handkerchiefs fluttered in the chilly morning air as hymns and songs of farewell echoed through the stands.
Despite the cold, thousands of Kenyans gathered from dawn, braving the weather to pay their final respects to the man whose name became synonymous with Kenya’s struggle for democracy, justice, and unity.
