Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's body arrived at Nyayo Stadium on October 17, 2025/EZEKIEL AMING'AKenya’s farewell to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga entered its most poignant phase on Friday, moving from the body viewing in Parliament to a state funeral at Nyayo Stadium.
At Parliament Buildings, President William Ruto penned a heartfelt message in the condolence book, describing Raila as “a gallant patriot who inspired many to stand up for democracy, justice, equity, and fairness.”
Opposition leaders, lawmakers, and ordinary citizens have filed past the casket to pay their respects, underscoring the broad impact of Raila’s life and politics.
On Friday, the focus shifted to Nyayo Stadium, where thousands of mourners braved the morning chill to witness the state funeral.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's body arrival at Nyayo Stadium on October 17, 2025/EZEKIEL AMING'ARaila’s family, led by Mama Ida Odinga and daughter Winnie, arrived dressed in black, accompanied by close allies including Jimmy Wanjigi and lawyer Willis Otieno.
Their arrival followed that of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and other dignitaries.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's family at Nyayo stadium for State funeral/EZEKIEL AMING'A
Kenyans flood Nyayo Stadium to pay respects to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Nyayo Stadium/EZEKIEL AMING'A
Leaders converge at Nyayo Stadium for Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's State Funeral/EZEKIEL AMING'A
Mama Ida Winnie Odinga in Nyayo Stadium for State Funeral/EZEKIEL AMING'AThe highlight came as military personnel, alongside police, Navy, and Air Force, wheeled in Raila’s flag-draped casket in a solemn procession led by religious leaders.
Mourners erupted in chants, whistles, and songs, waving flags, twigs, and white handkerchiefs as the choir performed Abide With Me.
Military Personnel march in Nyayo Stadium during State Funeral/EZEKIEL AMING'A
Winnie Odinga and Raila Odinga Junior during their father's State Funeral in Nyayo Stadium/EZEKIEL AMINGA
Raila Odinga Junior during state funeral at Nyayo Stadium/EZEKIEL AMING'AEmotions ran high as mourners flooded the venue, many openly weeping, chanting Raila’s name, and waving flags and handkerchiefs in a powerful display of grief and solidarity.
The state funeral drew together leaders, supporters, and clergy, uniting the nation in grief and celebration of Raila’s enduring legacy.
A woman wails as Kenyans converge for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium on October 17, 2025/EZEKIEL AMING’A
Religious leaders lead the solemn march of Raila Odinga’s casket into Nyayo Stadium during the state funeral/EZEKIEL AMING'A
Security beefed up in Nyayo Stadium during the state funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga/EZEKIEL AMING'A
