President William Ruto has explained the decision to have the late Raila Odinga’s body lie in state at the Parliament Buildings, saying it was a national gesture of honour for a leader who profoundly shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
In a post shared on X on Friday, October 17, 2025, Ruto said the Parliament was chosen to host the late opposition leader’s body in recognition of his long service to the institution and his immense contribution to the country’s governance and lawmaking processes.
“For fifteen years, our departed leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga, served the people of Langata Constituency with unwavering dedication and distinction as their Member of Parliament,” Ruto stated.
The President described Raila as a tireless champion of justice, democracy, and progress, noting that his leadership was instrumental in ushering in key reforms, including the historic passage of the 2010 Constitution during his tenure as Prime Minister.
Ruto added that having Raila’s body lie in state at the August House provided the Executive, Parliament, and Judiciary with an opportunity to collectively honour a man whose life embodied courage and patriotism.
“It is therefore most fitting that he lies in state at the August House, granting the three arms of Government and the nation a solemn moment to honour, with reverence and gratitude, the life and legacy of a true patriot and statesman,” he said.
Early Friday morning, Raila’s body was escorted by the military from Lee Funeral Home to Parliament Buildings, where thousands of Kenyans gathered to pay their last respects in an emotional farewell.
The national mourning period concluded with a state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, led by President Ruto and attended by local and international dignitaries. The ceremony featured a military guard of honour, gun salute, and heartfelt tributes celebrating the life of a man who dedicated his life to democracy, unity, and equality.
