BONDO, Kenya — Heavy security has been mounted at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, where the final burial ceremony of the former Prime Minister, the late Raila Amolo Odinga, is taking place today.
Dozens of military personnel and police officers have been strategically deployed across the venue and surrounding areas to maintain order as thousands of mourners, including local and international dignitaries, arrive for the historic farewell.
Leaders and clergy are already seated, awaiting the arrival of President William Ruto and other high-profile guests. Opposition leaders led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, and DAP-K officials are also present at the venue.
Rev. Joseph Wesonga: Death has disrupted the ODM party, the broad-based government and the country but the joy we have is that God promises to be with us…Let us wait upon the Lord and do what is right and allow the democracy of our nation grow
Thousands of Kenyans, many draped in ODM colours and carrying portraits of the late statesman, have thronged the university grounds to pay their final respects.
The atmosphere is charged with emotion, with mourners breaking into chants of “Baba! Baba!” as military and church processions prepare for the ceremony.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and National Police Service have sealed all key access routes, with security scanners and heavy surveillance ensuring safety as the state funeral unfolds.
Raila Odinga, who passed away in India on October 15, 2025, will be laid to rest later today at his home in Bondo, Siaya County, following the service at JOOUST.
Bishop David Kodia: I want us to be positive enough and have a deeper reflection of the message God has for us today. Let’s look unto ourselves and see how we can mirror and reflect God’s message
