Tight security has been mounted in Bondo, Siaya County, as preparations for the late Raila Odinga’s funeral service enter the final phase. Military officers from the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force, and Kenya Navy have been deployed to coordinate the solemn procession from Odinga’s Opoda Farm to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), where the main funeral service will be held.
The atmosphere at Opoda is both emotional and dignified, with hundreds of mourners gathering to pay their last respects to the longtime opposition leader and statesman. Senior government officials, led by National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director Noordin Haji, are already present at the Odinga residence to oversee security arrangements and represent the national leadership during the send-off.
Sources indicate that the Kenya Police Service, National Youth Service (NYS), and County Security teams are working in close coordination with the military to ensure smooth movement of the procession and maintain order along the route to JOOUST. Several roads leading to the university have been closed to the public, with only accredited vehicles allowed through.
The funeral service at JOOUST is expected to draw thousands, including local and international dignitaries. Preparations at the venue have been ongoing since Thursday, with tents, sound systems, and a large public gallery set up to accommodate mourners.
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, was widely regarded as a symbol of democracy and reform. His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across the nation and beyond, with leaders describing him as a patriot who dedicated his life to fighting for justice, unity, and equality.
The funeral procession marks the beginning of a final journey to lay one of Kenya’s most influential leaders to rest.