The Kenya Times begins its live coverage of the funeral service of Kenya’s veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, taking place at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, (JOOST). Raila who died on October 15, will be later laid to rest later at his ancestral Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, the same ground where his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President, was interred.
The day marks the climax of the ongoing national mourning period filled with emotion, reflection, and tributes from across the political divide.
Thousands of mourners, dignitaries are expected to attend, as Kenya bids farewell to one of its most influential statesmen.
Security remains tight across Bondo, with military and police deployments surrounding the homestead and key access routes.
12:55 p.m. – Introduction of MPs and Senators
Members of Parliament and Senators present at the funeral service are now being introduced.
Leaders from across the political divide including both government and opposition are in attendance, showing Raila Odinga’s broad national influence.
Applause erupts periodically as names of prominent legislators are mentioned, particularly those who worked closely with the late leader during his long political journey.
12:27 p.m. – Ida Odinga’s Emotional Tribute to Her Late Husband
Mama Ida Odinga took to the podium to deliver a moving tribute to her late husband, describing him as a steadfast partner, patriot, and man of the people.
“I want to thank specifically former President Uhuru Kenyatta, he is a true friend who stood with us,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion.
Reflecting on the decades of shared struggle and sacrifice, she added:
“All the times when he was away, either in detention or exile, I knew he would always come back. But this time, I will have to join him wherever he has gone, because he will never come back, but the spirit lives on.”
Ida concluded with a heartfelt line that left mourners teary-eyed:
“I know he is comfortable where he is. When my time comes, I will join him.”
The crowd at JOOUST fell silent, many visibly moved as Ida’s words captured the profound personal loss behind Kenya’s national mourning.
11:32 a.m. – Ruth Odinga Calls for ODM Unity
Ruth Odinga has called on members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to remain united and protect the legacy of the late Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the funeral service at JOOUST, Ruth stated that ODM’s strength has always been in its solidarity and commitment to justice.
“Let us not allow divisions to weaken what Raila built. This is the time to stand together and continue his vision for a fair and democratic Kenya,” she said.
Her remarks drew cheers from supporters, showing the emotional weight of the moment as the Odinga family and the nation bid farewell to the former Prime Minister.
11:05 a.m. – Family Members Pay Tribute to Raila Odinga
Emotional tributes are being delivered by Raila Odinga’s family members at the JOOUST grounds.
His wife, Ida Odinga, children, and close relatives are taking turns to share heartfelt memories of the late statesman.
Their remarks shows Raila’s humility, resilience, and unwavering dedication to justice and democracy.
Emotional mourners are seen as the family recalls his final days and the personal sacrifices he made in pursuit of a better Kenya.
10:40 a.m. – Emily Odinga, Raila’s Sister, Reads His Eulogy
Emotional scenes as Emily Odinga, sister to the late Raila Odinga, reads his eulogy.
Her voice trembles as she recounts Raila’s lifelong commitment to justice, freedom, and equality, values that defined his decades in Kenya’s political landscape.
The audience listens in silence, many holding back tears, as Emily paints a portrait of a leader, a brother, and a patriot whose legacy will endure beyond generations.
10:07 a.m. – Sermon in Progress
The funeral service is underway at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology grounds led by Dr. Joseph Otieno Wasonga.
The atmosphere is somber with thousands of mourners following the sermon attentively.
9:45 a.m. – Uhuru, Ruto, Obasanjo Arrive in Bondo
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, President William Ruto, and Nigeria’s former leader Olusegun Obasanjo have arrived at JOOUST grounds in Bondo for the funeral service of Raila Odinga.
The three leaders were received amid heightened security and thunderous cheers from mourners who had been waiting since dawn.
Security has been intensified around the venue as protocol teams coordinate seating arrangements for visiting dignitaries.
9:30 a.m. – Bishop Kodia to Lead Raila’s Final Service
Anglican Bishop Prof. David Kodia of the Diocese of Bondo, who made headlines with his fiery sermon during the state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, will preside over today’s funeral service at JOOUST.
Bishop Kodia is expected to deliver yet another powerful address as the nation bids farewell to Raila Odinga.
Clergy from various denominations have also joined in, turning the Bondo ceremony into a unifying national prayer service.
9:10 a.m. – Raila’s Body Arrives at JOOUST
The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has arrived at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) grounds for the final public funeral service.
The casket, draped in the national flag, was received by senior government officials, family members, and mourners who had already filled the venue from as early as 6 a.m.
A heavy security presence is visible, with tight coordination between state and county officers as thousands gather to pay their last respects.
8:37 a.m. – Raila’s Body leaves opoda farm to JOOUST
Raila Odinga’s body departs Opoda Farm en route to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) for a final public funeral service before the private family burial later today in Bondo.
Also Read: Govt Clears Air on Possibility of Cancelling Mashujaa Day After Raila Death
8:23 a.m. – Murkomen on Security at Bondo
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has praised security agencies for their coordination and professionalism during the final preparations for Raila Odinga’s burial at Opoda Farm, Bondo.
“This has been a very challenging event because it’s not something we planned for,” Murkomen said, acknowledging the logistical complexity of organizing a state funeral of such magnitude. “I am happy that finally, we got it right. We had challenges, but I am grateful for the great cooperation from citizens and the security team in ensuring we achieved this success.”
Murkomen also took a moment to reflect on Raila’s influence in his own political journey:
“We mourn a man who truly embodied sacrifice for the nation, a leader who didn’t depend on titles to lead. He held my hand. In his last days, we had many consultations, and he raised issues he wanted us to improve, including police brutality and compensation for victims.”
He confirmed that security operations remain fully in place, noting that “only about 500 people will be allowed into the compound” to maintain order and ensure a dignified ceremony.
7:56 a.m. – Final Preparations in Top Gear as High-Profile Guests Arrive in Bondo
Final preparations are underway at Opoda Farm ahead of Raila Odinga’s burial.
Security officers, cultural elders, and event organizers are coordinating last-minute details as convoys of dignitaries begin arriving at the venue.
Among the early arrivals are Cabinet Secretaries and Government officials.
Large tents, decorated in national colors, are now fully occupied as the nation gathers to witness the final chapter in Raila Odinga’s extraordinary journey.
More to Follow…
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