Raila’s body lies in state at Parliament as Kenyans, dignitaries prepare for Nyayo farewell
Raila Odinga’s body lies in state at Parliament on October 17, 2025. Courtesy photo
The body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga was on Friday morning taken to Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, where President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto led the nation in viewing and paying final respects to the late opposition leader.
The President, accompanied by Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki, walked slowly to the casket draped in the national flag.
He bowed his head in silence, then signed the condolence book, followed by the First Lady.
The air in the chamber was heavy--a silence broken only by the soft strains of a military band outside.
Thousands of Kenyans, many wearing orange ribbons and carrying portraits of Raila, filled Harambee Avenue, waving flags and chanting “Baba! Baba!” as the cortege arrived.
Prof Kindiki, who chairs the National Funeral Steering Committee, said the day’s viewing at Parliament marks the beginning of the State funeral events.
“After the viewing at Parliament, the body will be moved to Nyayo Stadium, where the main State funeral service will take place on Friday, attended by national and international dignitaries,” he announced.
The State funeral service at Nyayo Stadium will be held under full military honours, complete with a 21-gun salute and national tributes.
Dignitaries from across Africa and beyond--including former presidents, liberation heroes, and senior government representatives — are expected to attend.
Government spokesperson Dr Isaac Mwaura said gates at Nyayo will open early to allow public entry, with live screens set up in other cities for Kenyans unable to attend.
“This will be a people’s farewell--a solemn, dignified moment for the country to reflect on Raila’s sacrifice for democracy,” Dr Mwaura said.
After the Nyayo service, Raila’s body will be flown to Kisumu on Saturday morning for a public viewing at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo.
Residents of Nyanza and neighbouring counties are expected to gather in large numbers to pay their respects before the convoy departs for Bondo, Siaya County.
In Bondo, the late statesman will be laid to rest at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, next to his father and Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, on Sunday.
Family sources say this schedule honours Raila’s personal wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death--a wish the family and government have jointly agreed to respect.
The official viewing at Parliament had initially been slated for Thursday but was postponed after security and logistical challenges during the arrival of Raila’s body from India.
Crowds at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport overwhelmed police barriers, delaying the planned transfer. Security agencies later recommended tighter coordination before proceeding with public viewing.
“The adjustment was necessary to ensure order, safety, and respect,” explained Prof Kindiki.
Across the country, flags continue to fly at half-mast. Condolence books have been opened in counties, ministries, and schools.
In Kisumu, Kibera, and Mombasa, nightly vigils and candlelight processions continue--a testament to the affection millions hold for the man they called Baba.
As the final journey unfolds--from Parliament to Nyayo Stadium, then Kisumu and finally Bondo--Kenya is saying farewell not only to a political giant but to a symbol of courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Raila Amolo Odinga’s chapter in life may have closed, but his story remains deeply woven into Kenya’s democratic soul.
