Thousands of mourners gathered at Nyayo National Stadium to witness the state funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025, in India. The historic event drew a distinguished lineup of current and former presidents, regional leaders, and global dignitaries who came to honor one of Africa’s most influential statesmen.
Presidents in Attendance
Leading the ceremony was President William Ruto, who presided over the national farewell service for his longtime political counterpart. He was joined by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, both of whom praised Raila for his contributions to democracy and peace in East Africa.
Also in attendance was former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who described Raila as a “pillar of unity and a beacon of justice.” Former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete was among the visiting dignitaries, further emphasizing Raila’s influence across regional borders.
Several leaders unable to travel to Nairobi sent official representatives. Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan was represented by Vice President Philip Mpango, while South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir sent Vice President Rebecca Nyandeng Garang. Rwandan President Paul Kagame delegated Interior Minister Dr. Vincent Biruta to represent Rwanda at the service.
Kenyan Political Leadership and Notable Attendees
Kenya’s top leadership was present in full force. Alongside President Ruto were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and ICT CS William Kabogo.
From the opposition, prominent figures such as Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Justin Muturi, Eugene Wamalwa, and Mukhisa Kituyi attended the service, signaling a rare moment of unity as political rivals came together to pay their respects to a man whose life was defined by the struggle for democracy.
Funeral Programme and Next Steps
After the state funeral service, the Kenya Defence Forces led the national anthem before opening the floor for public viewing of Raila’s body at 12:00 p.m. The body was later returned to Lee Funeral Home before being transferred to Raila’s Karen residence for an overnight vigil.
On Saturday, October 18, Raila’s remains will be flown to Kisumu, where thousands are expected to gather at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium for a public viewing. A convoy will then escort the body to Bondo, Siaya County, for another overnight stay.
The burial is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, at Opoda Farm, the Odinga family’s ancestral home, in a ceremony conducted under Anglican Church traditions.
Legacy of a Statesman
Raila Odinga, who died of cardiac arrest while undergoing Ayurvedic treatment in India, was pronounced dead at Devamatha Hospital despite medical efforts to resuscitate him. At 80 years old, Raila leaves behind a political legacy spanning decades — a man who embodied the struggle for democracy, justice, and unity in Kenya.
His funeral has become not just a national event, but a continental moment of reflection — honoring a leader who shaped Kenya’s modern political identity and inspired generations across Africa.
