Thousands of mourners filled Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025, for the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, where an impassioned sermon by Prof. David Kodia, Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Bondo Diocese, electrified the crowd with calls for moral renewal and accountability in leadership.
A Powerful Call for Integrity
Bishop Kodia did not mince his words as he took aim at leaders who, instead of serving Kenyans, had turned public office into an avenue for self-enrichment.
“When we proclaim the Word, we should not be fearful,” he declared. “The Word must transform us to renew our strength for the liberation of our country from those looting everything, from the national level to the grassroots.”
He warned corrupt leaders that their misdeeds would not go unpunished:
“If there’s anyone here a governor, an MCA, or any leader who has looted this country, know that you stand the chance to be condemned.”
His words drew thunderous applause and cheers from the emotionally charged crowd, many of whom waved Kenyan flags in agreement.
Exposing the “Culture of Handouts”
The Bishop lamented how corruption and greed had eroded Kenya’s moral fabric, fostering a culture where citizens were conditioned to expect handouts rather than genuine service.
“Today, we have bad manners among our politicians,” Bishop Kodia said. “They’ve taught our people that whatever you want, you must pay for it. Woe unto those who drive big vehicles you’re in big trouble.”
He contrasted this behavior with Raila Odinga’s leadership style, describing him as a man who led with conviction and persuasion rather than money or intimidation.
“Baba never used the power of his wallet to convince people; he used the power of persuasion and the power of the Word. Let us allow ourselves to be used by God so that the power He gives us can correct, reconcile, and rebuke what is evil.”
Challenging the leaders present, Bishop Kodia asked:
“How many can truly fit in the shoes of Raila Odinga today? How many?”
A Nation United in Farewell
The sermon drew a standing ovation, with mourners rising to their feet and waving flags in a stirring moment of unity and reflection.
The State Funeral, attended by President William Ruto, government officials, and international dignitaries including Ethiopian President Taye Selassie and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, was both a solemn farewell and a celebration of a man described as an enigma a steadfast champion of democracy and justice.
Following the ceremony, the public was given an opportunity to view the body at the stadium before it was moved to the Odinga family home in Karen for an overnight vigil. On Saturday, the procession is expected to travel to Kisumu’s Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo, for a public viewing, ahead of Raila Odinga’s burial in Bondo on Sunday.
As Bishop Kodia’s words echoed through Nyayo Stadium, the message was unmistakable Kenya must honor Raila Odinga’s memory not just in mourning, but in moral action, by embracing integrity, service, and courage in leadership.
