Thousands of mourners have converged at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County, to attend the State Funeral Service of Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Amollo Odinga. The atmosphere in Bondo is solemn yet filled with deep admiration as Kenyans from all walks of life come together to celebrate the life and legacy of the veteran opposition leader and reform champion.
Early Saturday morning, the body of the late Odinga left his Opoda farm residence, where it had spent the night, escorted by Military Police and a ceremonial guard of honour. The short journey to JOOUST, which hosts the main funeral service, marks a historic farewell to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
According to the official programme, the Odinga family was expected to arrive at the venue around 8 a.m., followed by Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries. Among the notable attendees already present are Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who joined thousands of mourners in paying their final respects.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen mourned Raila Odinga, describing him as a “unique leader” who embodied the essence of service over position.
“We will miss him. Raila was such a unique leader in our country. He embodied the principle that leadership is not the position; it is the service you give. And it is because of his service that we have come to appreciate who he was and the service he gave,” Murkomen said.
The State Funeral Service is expected to feature military honours, prayers, and tributes from family, political leaders, and international guests. Raila’s legacy as a reformist, democrat, and tireless advocate for justice continues to resonate deeply across the nation, as Kenya bids farewell to one of its most iconic sons.
