The morning air in Nairobi was thick with emotion as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrived at Nyayo Stadium for the State Funeral.
At exactly 9:46 a.m., the convoy rolled through Uhuru Highway — the hearse, draped in Kenya’s flag, moving slowly through crowds that had lined the route since dawn. Many waved flags and twigs; others clutched portraits of the man they simply called Baba.
Some sang freedom songs that once echoed through the country’s fight for democracy. Others wept quietly as the procession passed.
“Raila may have left us, but his spirit will forever march on with Kenya,” said one mourner, her voice breaking as she stood among thousands outside the stadium gates.
The casket, borne by military pallbearers from Parliament Buildings, arrived under heavy security. A ceremonial guard of honour stood rigid as the cortege entered the grounds.
Inside Nyayo Stadium, thousands had gathered — Kenyans from every corner of the country, joined by heads of state, diplomats, and community leaders. President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and former colleagues from across the political divide sat alongside Raila’s family, including Mama Ida, Winnie, and Rosemary Odinga.
Foreign dignitaries from across Africa filled the stands, paying tribute to a man whose political life shaped Kenya’s modern history.
The State Funeral will include military honours, prayers, and musical tributes — a solemn blend of grief and celebration. Choirs and cultural groups are expected to perform songs reflecting Raila’s decades-long struggle for justice and reform.
Security across the capital has been tightened. Kenya Defence Forces, National Police, and National Youth Service personnel have sealed off key roads, with all attendees screened through multiple checkpoints before entering the stadium.
After today’s ceremony, Raila’s body will be taken to his Karen home for a private family vigil. On Saturday morning, it will be flown to Kisumu, then driven to his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, where he will be buried on Sunday — in keeping with his wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours.
For many, this moment marks not only the farewell of a statesman but the closing of an era.
As the national anthem played and the flag fluttered at half-mast, silence fell over the crowd — a silence heavy with memory, pride, and a sense of unfinished work.
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