By: Joseph Kimani
In a moment that will be etched into the annals of Kenya’s political history, the nation came together to bid farewell to one of its most iconic and enduring figures—Raila Amolo Odinga. The former Prime Minister, revered opposition leader, and democracy crusader was laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, following a four-day state funeral that drew millions of mourners from across the country and beyond.
The send-off was not just a funeral—it was a national moment of reflection, unity, and tribute to a man who shaped Kenya’s political landscape for over four decades. From the moment his body arrived from India, where he passed away at the age of 80, to the final rites in Bondo, the outpouring of grief and admiration was palpable.
The state funeral began in earnest on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. The solemn ceremony was led by President William Ruto and attended by dignitaries from across Africa, including heads of state, former presidents, and international envoys. The Right Reverend Prof. David Hellington Kodia, Bishop of Bondo, presided over the service, offering prayers and reflections on Odinga’s life and legacy.
A military convoy, complete with ceremonial guards and a full brass band, escorted Odinga’s casket from Parliament Buildings to the stadium. Thousands of Kenyans lined the streets, waving flags and olive branches, many chanting “Baba! Baba!”—a nickname that had become synonymous with Odinga’s paternal role in the nation’s democratic journey.
The atmosphere at Nyayo Stadium was one of reverence and sorrow. Speeches from family members, political allies, and religious leaders painted a portrait of a man who was both a fierce political warrior and a devoted family man. President Ruto, in his eulogy, described Odinga as “a statesman whose courage and convictions helped shape the soul of our republic.” He added, “To you, Baba, I owe you. And I am truly and eternally grateful that our path crossed and that we shared this journey together.”
Odinga’s journey to his final resting place was marked by stops in Kisumu and his Opoda home, where thousands more gathered to pay their respects. In Kisumu, a city that had long been a stronghold of Odinga’s political base, the reception was emotional and overwhelming. Crowds thronged the streets, some holding placards bearing his image, others singing liberation songs that had become anthems of his political rallies.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also delivered a heartfelt tribute, calling Odinga “a beacon of peace, democracy, and human rights.” He emphasized Raila’s central role in Kenya’s political evolution, stating, “Our history in this country is not complete without Raila as number one.” Uhuru urged Kenyans to uphold Odinga’s ideals for eternity, describing him as a leader who embraced all Kenyans equally and never allowed tribalism to define his politics.
The burial on Sunday will be a private affair, held at the family’s homestead in Kango Ka Jaramogi, beside the graves of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son, Fidel. The ceremony will attended by close family, friends, and a few invited guests. In accordance with his wishes, Odinga was buried within 72 hours of his death—a detail he had specified in his will, reflecting his lifelong commitment to order and principle.
The funeral was not without its moments of tension. On Thursday, during the public viewing at Kasarani Stadium, chaos erupted when mourners attempted to breach security barriers. Police responded with tear gas and live ammunition, leading to a deadly stampede. Human rights groups later confirmed multiple casualties, including two men whose identities were verified at the City Mortuary. The incident cast a shadow over the otherwise dignified proceedings and sparked renewed calls for police accountability.
Despite the tragedy, the overall tone of the send-off remained one of unity and national healing. Odinga’s death brought together political rivals, religious leaders, and citizens from all walks of life. In a country often divided along ethnic and political lines, his funeral became a rare moment of collective mourning and shared purpose.
Raila Odinga’s legacy is vast and complex. Born into a political dynasty, he spent much of his life in the trenches of opposition politics. He was detained without trial, survived political betrayals, and led mass movements that challenged the status quo. His role in the 2002 democratic transition, the 2007 post-election crisis, and the 2018 handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta are just a few of the milestones that defined his career.
Yet beyond politics, Odinga was a symbol of resilience. His ability to reinvent himself, to remain relevant across generations, and to inspire hope in millions made him a towering figure in Kenyan public life. His supporters saw him as a liberator, a voice for the marginalized, and a tireless advocate for justice.
As the sun will be setting over Bondo on Sunday evening, the nation though expected to be left with a profound sense of loss—but they will also have a renewed sense of purpose. Raila Odinga may have departed, but his ideals, his struggles, and his vision for a better Kenya live on.
In the words of his brother, Senator Oburu Oginga, “Raila was not just our brother—he was Kenya’s son. And though he is gone, his spirit will continue to guide this nation.”
Indeed, the final chapter of Raila Odinga’s life was not just a farewell—it was a call to action. A reminder that democracy is never finished, that justice must always be pursued, and that the dream of a united Kenya is worth every sacrifice.
As the country moves forward, the memory of “Baba” will remain a beacon—challenging, inspiring, and enduring.
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