BONDO, Kenya – Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday made a private visit to the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County, a day after the ODM leader’s emotional burial.
Uhuru arrived quietly at the Odinga family home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, where he joined close relatives in what became a deeply personal moment of reflection.
In a video, the former president walked alone to the fresh grave, bowed his head in prayer, and stood silently for several moments as he paid his respects to his long-time political ally.
At one point, Uhuru extended his hand toward the grave before clasping it in prayer, his head lowered throughout the solemn act. Family members and a few aides stood nearby in silence.
The intimate moment, marked by calm and emotion, underscored the deep personal bond between the two leaders — one defined by rivalry, reconciliation, and mutual respect.
Their relationship famously evolved from fierce political competition to close partnership after the landmark 2018 “handshake,” which eased post-election tensions and helped steady the country’s political landscape.
Uhuru’s visit comes amid a wave of national mourning and tributes that continue to pour in from across Africa, honouring Raila as a liberation icon and tireless advocate for democracy.
On Sunday, thousands of mourners had thronged the Odinga family home for the final farewell, overwhelming tight security as they surged toward the gravesite to pay their last respects.
The emotional crowd, waving twigs and chanting Raila’s name, breached security cordons formed by the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service and county enforcement officers shortly after the casket was lowered.
Despite appeals for calm, mourners pressed forward, singing traditional Luo dirges and freedom songs associated with Raila’s long struggle for reform.
President William Ruto, who had earlier attended the ceremony, had left the venue by then. Uhuru and members of the Odinga family remained at the scene as order was gradually restored.
Uhuru’s quiet visit the following day, away from the cameras and the crowd, offered a stark contrast to the emotional scenes of the burial — a gesture that symbolised both personal grief and enduring respect for one of Kenya’s most consequential political figures.
