CNN International correspondent Larry Madowo has spoken out to dispel growing speculation about his political future after an unexpected moment of public adoration during the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025.
Madowo, who was reporting live alongside videographer Fabian Muhire, drew the attention of mourners when he was recognised in the crowd. As the ceremony unfolded, cheers erupted from sections of the audience, momentarily shifting focus from the solemn proceedings to the popular journalist. Madowo acknowledged the chants with a brief wave before resuming his live coverage.
The spontaneous reaction quickly gained traction online, with some Kenyans interpreting it as a signal of his potential political appeal. However, Madowo was quick to shut down the rumours. In a post shared on Instagram, he expressed gratitude for the warmth shown by Kenyans but firmly denied any interest in joining politics.
“Thanks for the love, but I’m not entering politics. Not now. Not ever. Thanks for your attention to this matter,” he wrote, reiterating his commitment to journalism.
His clarification came amid a week of national mourning following the passing of Raila Odinga, a figure widely regarded as a symbol of Kenya’s democratic struggle. The former Prime Minister died on October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, at the age of 80 after suffering a cardiac arrest.
After his body was flown back to Kenya on October 16, massive crowds gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, prompting authorities to adjust the initial reception plans. Public viewings were later shifted from Parliament Buildings to Kasarani Stadium to accommodate the swelling number of mourners.
At Nyayo Stadium, the state funeral brought together current and former heads of state, senior government officials, and foreign dignitaries, including President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. The event served as a unifying moment, drawing Kenyans from all walks of life to honour Odinga’s enduring legacy of courage, democracy, and justice.
Even after official proceedings ended, long queues of mourners continued to pass by the casket draped in the national flag in a moving display of collective grief. Security officers from the National Youth Service (NYS) and General Service Unit (GSU) managed the flow, ensuring order during the emotional farewell.
Raila Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, beside his mother, Mary Odhiambo Odinga, in accordance with his final wishes.
