NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 15 — The National Funeral Committee tasked to plan the burial for former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has secured consensus to vary his wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours of his death, settling on Sunday as the burial date.
Announcing the decision on Wednesday evening, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, whom President Ruto named as co-chair, said the government was working closely with the Odinga family and the ODM party to ensure a dignified farewell that honours both his personal wishes and his national stature.
“The family has informed this committee that it was the wish of the Honourable Raila Odinga to be buried within the shortest time possible following his demise,” Kindiki said flanked by Odinga’s brother, Senator Oburu, his co-chair in the committee.
“That timeline is 72 hours. We have therefore agreed on an expedited process that balances his wishes, the family’s needs, and the community traditions he cherished.”
Kindiki said a government delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi had already departed for India to facilitate the repatriation of the former Prime Minister’s remains.
8.30 am arrival
The aircraft carrying the body is expected to arrive in Nairobi around 8:30 am Thursday, where it will be received by President William Ruto, members of the Odinga family, and senior government officials.
The body will then be taken to Parliament Buildings for public viewing between 12 noon and 5 pm before being taken to Lee Funeral Home.
“Public grieving spaces will be set up in Nairobi and other major towns, with large screens to enable Kenyans to follow the ceremonies and pay their respects,” Kindiki added.
A state funeral service will be held at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, to be attended by local and international dignitaries. The service will follow full state protocol in recognition of Odinga’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy and public life.
After the service, the body will be moved to the family’s Karen residence for an overnight vigil before being flown to Kisumu on Saturday morning.
In Kisumu, members of the public will have an opportunity to view the body at Moi Stadium between 9 am and 3 pm, after which it will be transported by road to Bondo for a final overnight vigil.
The burial will take place Sunday morning at his Bondo home in Siaya County, conducted by the Anglican Church.
Peace and unity
Kindiki appealed for peace and unity as the nation mourns, urging Kenyans to honour Odinga’s lifelong message of tolerance and national cohesion.
“We are mourning and also celebrating the life of a great leader,” said Senator Oburu Oginga, who spoke after the Deputy President.
“Let us give my brother the dignified send-off he deserves. We pray for peace during this period and reflection on his life and legacy.”
President William Ruto earlier declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country and in all Kenyan missions abroad.
“This is a solemn moment in our nation’s history. We will give the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga a farewell befitting a statesman who defined our democratic journey,” Kindiki said.
