National Assembly adjourns as MPs mourn Raila Odinga
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula while making the ruling to adjourn morning sitting on Wednesday. Inset: The late Raila Odinga. Photo/PBU
The National Assembly suspended its morning sitting on Wednesday following the death of ODM leader and Opposition Chief, Raila Amolo Odinga.
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula invoked Standing Order Number One, which grants him authority to make decisions in unforeseen circumstances not provided for in the House rules.
The clause allows the Speaker to use discretion to maintain order and protect the dignity of Parliament during exceptional moments.
“I will invoke my authority under Standing Order Number One, and I direct as follows: the sitting this morning is adjourned. We will have a sitting at 2:30pm this afternoon, where the Speaker will give you important communication. For now, the House stands adjourned to 2:30 PM this afternoon,” Wetang’ula told MPs in a solemn tone.
The mood inside the chamber quickly turned emotional as MPs came to terms with the loss of one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures.
Likoni MP Mishi Mboko could not hold back her tears, while Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo was seen weeping as colleagues tried to comfort her.
A number of MPs from both the government and opposition benches stood in silence, some bowing their heads in prayer.
A few others walked out of the chamber visibly shaken.
Mr Odinga’s passing has sent shockwaves across the country and Parliament, where he had many allies and admirers.
He had been a central figure in Kenya’s political scene for more than four decades, shaping national debates and leading the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) since 2005.
Speaker Wetang’ula said the House would reconvene later in the afternoon for an official communication, likely outlining the next steps for national mourning and how Parliament will honour Mr Odinga’s legacy.
By the time the sitting was adjourned, several MPs had already begun drafting condolence messages, describing Mr Odinga as a fearless reformer, patriot, and unifying figure.
Security around Parliament Buildings was tightened as crowds gathered outside to follow proceedings and express grief.
To advertise with us, send an email to advert@avdeltanews.world