The
body of former Prime Minister Raila
Odinga has arrived at Nyayo Funeral for the State Funeral.
The convoy snaked through Uhuru Highway into the grounds at 9:46m.
As the hearse made its slow entry, mourners broke into wails, even as the convoy made a round.
The body had left Parliament Buildings for Nyayo National Stadium, marking the next chapter in the state funeral.
The procession began shortly after
9:20am, with military pallbearers carrying the flag-draped casket out of
Parliament’s main entrance.
A ceremonial guard of honor stood at
attention as the hearse, flanked by uniformed officers and family members, made
its way through Nairobi’s streets.
Crowds lined the route, many waving
flags, twigs, and holding portraits of the late leader.
Some wept openly, others sang songs
that echoed Raila’s decades-long struggle for democracy and reform.
Some mourners waved flags and twigs, symbols of mourning, while others held placards and portraits of the man many fondly called Baba.
At Nyayo Stadium, thousands of mourners
arrived in the early morning, including Kenyans, regional leaders, and foreign dignitaries.
President William
Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and other dignitaries had
already taken their seats.
They had earlier viewed the body at
Parliament alongside Ruth Odinga, Winnie Odinga, and Raila’s
long-time aide Maurice Ogeta.
Mama Ida and Rosemary Odinga has
also taken their seats alongside the rest of the family.
Foreign dignitaries from across Africa joined Kenyans in paying their final respects.
The state funeral ceremony will feature prayers, military honours and musical tributes celebrating Raila’s political legacy and contribution to democracy.
Performances from various choirs and cultural groups are expected to blend mourning with reflection, marking a rare moment of unity in Kenya’s political landscape.
Security has been heightened across the capital, with Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service, and National Youth Service (NYS) personnel manning key intersections.
Entry to the stadium has been tightly controlled, with attendees screened through multiple checkpoints.
After the ceremony, the body will be transported to Raila’s Karen home, where it will remain overnight before being flown to Kisumu on Saturday morning.
On Sunday, the late statesman will be laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, in accordance with his wish to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.
The nation continues to mourn a man remembered for his courage, resilience, and relentless pursuit of justice.
As one mourner put it, “Raila may
have left us, but his spirit will forever march on with Kenya.”
