Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accompanied by his son Jomo Kenyatta, arrived at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday morning to attend the state funeral of the late Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and long-serving opposition leader.
A video clip seen by this publication captured the emotional moment the former head of state entered the stadium, receiving a warm welcome from mourners who had filled the stands to capacity. The crowd erupted in cheers as Uhuru waved to thousands of Kenyans gathered to pay their final respects to the late ODM Party Leader.
The solemn ceremony has drawn leaders from across Kenya’s political divide, alongside diplomats and international dignitaries, all united in paying tribute to one of the country’s most influential political figures.
Organized by the National Funeral Committee, the state funeral includes a full military guard of honour, a 21-gun salute, and tributes from both local and global leaders — a rare honour for an opposition leader in Kenya’s history.
Uhuru Reflects on His Friendship with Raila
Earlier in the week, former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered a heartfelt message to the Odinga family and the nation, describing Raila’s passing as a deeply personal loss.
“My heart is heavy, and my spirit burdened with grief that is both profound and personal,” he said. “The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation — a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction.”
Uhuru recalled their shared political journey, noting how their relationship evolved from fierce rivalry to a strong bond of friendship and respect after the 2018 Handshake, which marked a turning point in Kenya’s political reconciliation.
“To me, Raila was more than a political colleague; he was a defining part of my own journey in public service. Baba challenged you to think deeply, to defend your ideas with conviction,” he said. “In later years, we forged a new bond — one built on mutual respect, shared patriotism, and a desire to see a united Kenya.”
Leaders Unite for Raila Odinga’s Final Send-Off
Raila Odinga’s funeral has brought together a rare assembly of political leaders, including President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, among other African dignitaries such as Vice President Philip Mpango.
The atmosphere at Nyayo National Stadium remains both emotional and celebratory, as Kenyans and global leaders reflect on the extraordinary life of a man whose political career spanned over four decades.
Raila Odinga’s influence on Kenya’s democratic journey — from championing multi-party reforms to advocating for social justice and inclusivity — continues to resonate deeply across the nation and beyond.
