Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has directed Members of Parliament to attend Thursday’s special sitting dressed in sombre attire as they pay tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Wetang’ula made the announcement moments before the House observed a minute of silence in honour of the ODM leader during Wednesday’s afternoon session. He stated that the special sitting would be held from 10 a.m. to midnight, providing lawmakers with the opportunity to eulogise the iconic statesman.
“I advise that we come in a sombre state, in sombre attire, meaning we dress in black,” Wetang’ula said. “The good ladies should provide ribbons for everyone so that we demonstrate our respect and appreciation for our fallen heroic leader.”
The Speaker emphasised that the Thursday session would serve as the only formal opportunity for MPs to mourn and celebrate Raila’s life and contribution to Kenya’s democracy and Pan-African ideals.
Although Wednesday’s sitting was adjourned without MPs delivering tributes, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed were permitted to share brief remarks before travelling to India to facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s remains.
Ichung’wah expressed heartfelt condolences to Raila’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, and his children, describing the former Prime Minister as a father figure and a Pan-Africanist who shaped Kenya’s political landscape.
“We will remember him as a great Pan-Africanist, a father to our nation, and a mentor to many of us,” Ichung’wah said, recalling their recent conversation before Raila fell ill.
An emotional Junet Mohammed said he was still grappling with the loss and requested to deliver his full tribute during Thursday’s sitting.
“We knew death would come one day, but we didn’t expect it so soon,” he remarked.
The special sitting is expected to be one of the most emotional parliamentary sessions in Kenya’s history, as MPs from across the political divide come together to honour the legacy of Raila Odinga.
