President William Ruto has described the decision to have the late Raila Amollo Odinga’s body lie in state at the Parliament Buildings as a profound national gesture of honour, recognizing his pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s democratic and political journey.
In a statement shared on X on Friday, October 17, 2025, accompanied by photos from the solemn occasion, President Ruto explained that Parliament was chosen as the venue in recognition of the late leader’s long and distinguished service to the institution.
“For fifteen years, our departed leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga, served the people of Lang’ata Constituency with unwavering dedication and distinction as their Member of Parliament,” Ruto noted.
He added that during his tenure, Raila Odinga was a steadfast advocate for justice, democracy, and progress—playing a key role in landmark legislative reforms, including the adoption of the 2010 Constitution during his service as Prime Minister.
Honouring Raila’s Legacy in Parliament
President Ruto emphasized that the decision to have Raila’s body lie in state at the August House provided a symbolic opportunity for Kenya’s three arms of government—the Executive, Parliament, and the Judiciary—to jointly pay tribute to his lifelong service and enduring legacy.
“It is therefore most fitting that he lies in state at the August House, granting the three arms of Government and the nation a solemn moment to honour, with reverence and gratitude, the life and legacy of a true patriot and statesman,” Ruto added.
Earlier in the day, the late leader’s body was escorted by the military from Lee Funeral Home to Parliament Buildings, where thousands of Kenyans gathered to pay their final respects. The emotional viewing ceremony marked one of the most poignant moments of the national mourning period.
State Funeral at Nyayo Stadium
Following the public viewing, a state funeral service was held at Nyayo National Stadium, where President Ruto led Kenyans and international dignitaries in paying their final tributes.
The ceremony featured full military honours, including a guard of honour, a 21-gun salute, and eulogies from family members, religious leaders, and visiting heads of state and diplomats.
The farewell marked the culmination of a week of national mourning that brought together Kenyans from all walks of life transcending political and social divides to celebrate the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Raila Odinga, a visionary whose commitment to democracy, justice, and equality helped transform the nation.
