A sombre mood engulfed Parliament Buildings on Friday morning as President William Ruto arrived to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who lies in state ahead of his State Funeral.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, arrived shortly after 8:15 a.m. Clad in dark attire, the couple walked slowly toward the casket, bowing their heads in silence before signing the condolence book. President Ruto appeared visibly emotional as he penned his message of tribute to the late opposition leader.
Moments later, Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, and his children, Raila Odinga Jr. and Winnie Odinga, approached the casket. Raila Jr. performed a short cultural ritual, waving a fly whisk above his father’s body as the family stood in quiet reflection.
Among other dignitaries present were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who joined Chief Justice Martha Koome and Members of Parliament in paying their last respects.
Emotions ran high as mourners broke into the song “Pamoja na wewe! Pamoja na wewe!” while others wept openly. “It is still hard to believe Baba is gone,” said one mourner, visibly shaken. “He carried the hopes of so many Kenyans.”
Raila’s body, draped in the national flag, was received by senior government officials, clergy, and family members before being taken into the main foyer of Parliament for the lying-in-state ceremony.
Preparations are in high gear for the State Funeral scheduled for Saturday at Nyayo National Stadium from 9 a.m., where several world leaders are expected.
Security has been tightened across Nairobi, with over 10,000 officers from the Kenya Defence Forces, General Service Unit, and National Police Service deployed. Roads near the stadium will remain closed to ensure smooth movement and safety during the high-profile event.
