NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Friday joined a host of opposition leaders at Parliament Buildings to pay their last respects to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Dr Matiang’i was accompanied by PLP leader Martha Karua, Democratic Action Party leader Eugene Wamalwa, former National Assembly Speaker Justine Muturi, and former Trade Minister Dr Mukhisa Kituyi.
“This morning, I joined fellow Opposition leaders Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, JB Muturi, and Dr Mukhisa Kituyi as we proceeded to Parliament to view the body of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,” Matiang’i wrote in a post on X.
This morning, I joined fellow Opposition leaders @MarthaKarua, @EugeneLWamalwa, @HonJBMuturi and @DrMukhisaKituyi as we proceeded to Parliament to view the body of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.
Raila’s body is lying in state at Parliament Buildings for legislators and close family members to pay their final respects.
The viewing had been initially scheduled for Thursday morning but was postponed after huge crowds at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport delayed the motorcade carrying the opposition leader’s remains.
Following the disruption, organisers redirected the procession to Kasarani International Stadium, where thousands of mourners braved the heat to catch a glimpse of the late ODM leader’s casket amid chaotic scenes and heavy police presence.
President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and other top government officials had earlier visited Parliament to view the body. They were joined by members of Raila’s family, including his long-time aide and bodyguard Maurice Ogeta.
At Nyayo Stadium, thousands of mourners — among them Kenyans from across the country, regional leaders, and international dignitaries — gathered early in the morning for the national memorial service.
The event featured tributes, prayers, and musical performances celebrating Raila’s lifelong struggle for democracy and justice.
The body will later be transported to Raila’s Karen residence before being flown to Kisumu on Saturday.
Raila Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday at his home in Bondo, Siaya County, in accordance with his wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
