SIAYA, Kenya – At least 500 people will be allowed at the gravesite of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo for his final burial rites, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced.
Murkomen said the restriction was necessary due to the limited space at the Odinga homestead and to ensure a solemn farewell for the family.
“The homestead is not very big. At most, maybe 500 people can be accommodated,” Murkomen said on Sunday at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) grounds, where Raila’s final funeral service will be held.
“There is something very solemn about the last rite, particularly during the burial itself. If it becomes noisy with too many people, the family may never experience that solemn moment. I urge our people to be sensitive and give the family the space they need,” he added.
The interment service for the late leader will begin at 9:00 am at JOOUST and run until 1:00 pm, followed by committal prayers and military honours at his gravesite in Kango’Ka Jaramogi, Bondo.
Tight Security in Bondo
The CS said the government had put in place strict security and crowd-control measures along the route to Bondo and around the Odinga residence.
“The security sector has worked closely with the family and the public to ensure that the burial programme proceeds smoothly and peacefully,” Murkomen said.
“I appreciate the security team—the military, police and other formed units—for coordinating an operational plan that has ensured great success so far.”
Tribute to a National Leader
Murkomen described Raila as a selfless and visionary leader whose influence transcended politics and official positions.
“We mourn a great Kenyan, a man who truly embodied sacrifice and service to the nation,” he said. “In my younger political career, Raila held my hand and placed me in the task force on devolved government, which helped me appreciate devolution and influenced my decision to run for Senate.”
He recalled that their relationship remained cordial even when they were on opposing sides of the political divide.
“Even when he was on the other side of politics, I always had opportunities, whether with President Uhuru Kenyatta or President William Ruto, to engage with him on national assignments. I really cherish those moments,” he said.
Raila’s Final Days and Legacy
Murkomen revealed that in Raila’s final days, the two had held several consultations on governance, police reforms, and human rights under the recently established broad-based government framework.
“He often told me we must improve certain areas, and I learned from him on many issues, including police reforms and dealing with police brutality,” Murkomen said. “One of his wishes was that those who suffered during public protests should be compensated. I really hope that even in his death, this will be fulfilled so that those who suffered consequences from protests can finally get justice.”
Raila Odinga, 80, died on Wednesday in Kochi, India, where he had been receiving medical treatment. Hospital officials said he suffered a cardiac arrest.
