A somber atmosphere filled the air at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi on Friday morning as President William Ruto led the nation’s top leadership in paying their last respects to the late Raila Amolo Odinga. The event marked a deeply emotional moment in Kenya’s week-long mourning period for the former Prime Minister, whose legacy as a reformist and democracy champion continues to unite the country.
Raila’s body arrived from Lee Funeral Home shortly before 6:40 a.m., escorted by a police motorcade under tight security. President Ruto, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, approached the casket with solemnity, bowing his head in respect as a gesture of national unity. His action set the tone for a morning of reflection and reverence for a man who had spent decades shaping Kenya’s political landscape.
Among those present were Chief Justice Martha Koome, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, alongside other senior government officials. Their attendance reflected the widespread respect Raila commanded across all arms of government, transcending political and ideological differences.
Originally, the late Odinga’s body was expected to arrive at Parliament around noon for public viewing. However, the overwhelming crowds that had gathered throughout the capital and at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport prompted security officials to alter the schedule. The procession was rerouted, allowing the body to proceed directly to Kasarani Stadium, where thousands of Kenyans were already waiting to pay their final respects.
As the convoy approached Parliament, emotions ran high. Hundreds of mourners who had spent the night outside the gates surged forward, some climbing fences and barriers to catch a final glimpse of the flag-draped casket. Police officers struggled to control the growing crowd as chants of “Baba! Baba!” echoed across the grounds, a powerful reminder of the deep connection Kenyans shared with the late leader.
Friday’s viewing ceremony was part of a series of national events organized to honor Raila’s life and contributions. After lying in state, his body is expected to be taken to Nyayo National Stadium for a state funeral attended by local and foreign dignitaries before being flown to Kisumu for public viewing at Moi Stadium. The final journey will end in his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where he will be laid to rest beside his family ancestors.
As Kenya mourns, the image of President Ruto and other leaders standing side by side in Parliament stands as a poignant symbol of unity, respect, and reconciliation — values that Raila Odinga tirelessly fought to uphold throughout his life.
IMAGE BY PULSE KENYA
