NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Prime Minister the late Raila Odinga’s body is lying in state at Parliament buildings, for family members and legislators to pay their last respects.
The body was to be taken to Parliament on Thursday but failed due to surging crowds that delayed the procession from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
As a last minute decision, the body was taken to Kasarani International Stadium for viewing- amidst chaotic events triggered by police.
A sombre mood engulfed Parliament on Friday morning as President William Ruto arrived shortly after 8:15 a.m. to view the body of the late opposition leader.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, appeared visibly moved as he approached the flag-draped casket and bowed his head in silence before signing the condolence book.
Moments later, Raila’s sister Ruth Odinga and his children Raila Odinga Jr. and Winnie Odinga approached the casket. In a brief cultural ritual, Raila Jr. held a fly whisk over his father’s body as the family stood in quiet reflection.
Among other senior leaders who viewed the body were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. Chief Justice Martha Koome and several Members of Parliament were also present.
The ceremony precedes the State Funeral set for Saturday at Nyayo National Stadium, expected to draw thousands of mourners, including foreign dignitaries and world leaders.
Meanwhile, security preparations intensified across Nairobi. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS) mounted a heavy presence around both Parliament and Nyayo Stadium.
Officials said 10,000 security personnel — including GSU officers, the military, and special units — have been mobilized to maintain order during the State Funeral.
Nairobi’s head of traffic operations Joseph Chirchir announced the closure of several roads near the stadium and advised motorists to use alternative routes from Bunyala Road to the city centre.
Raila’s body, draped in the Kenyan national flag, was earlier received by senior government officials, clergy, and family members before being placed in the main foyer of Parliament for public viewing.
