Outspoken lawyer and political commentator Miguna Miguna has once again stirred public debate after blasting organizers of the late Raila Amolo Odinga’s funeral for allegedly planning to bury the opposition leader in a private ceremony. In an emotional outburst, Miguna questioned why a man of Raila’s stature—who dedicated his entire life to fighting for democracy, freedom, and justice—would be laid to rest away from the public that loved and supported him.
“Mbona mnataka kuzika Raila kama mwizi?” Miguna fumed, expressing disbelief and anger at reports suggesting that Raila’s burial in Bondo would be a closed-door affair limited to family and a few invited guests. His statement quickly went viral on social media, attracting both support and criticism in equal measure.
According to Miguna, Raila Odinga’s life and political journey belonged to the people of Kenya, not just his family. He argued that Raila was a public figure who fought for citizens’ rights, endured imprisonment, and suffered political persecution on behalf of the nation. To him, burying Raila privately would be an injustice to the millions of Kenyans who saw him as a symbol of freedom and resilience. “Raila gave his life to Kenya. He was the people’s leader. Why hide him from the people in death?” Miguna posed angrily.
Miguna’s statement reflects the deep emotional connection many Kenyans feel toward Raila Odinga. For decades, Raila stood as the face of Kenya’s opposition politics—fearlessly challenging regimes, leading reform movements, and uniting citizens across ethnic and political divides. His leadership transcended party lines and inspired hope among generations who believed in change. To many, his funeral should be a moment of national reflection, not a restricted family affair.
However, those defending the decision for a private ceremony argue that Raila’s family has the right to decide how their patriarch is laid to rest. They maintain that, after years of public scrutiny and political battles, Raila deserves a peaceful and dignified farewell. Yet, Miguna insists that while the family’s wishes are respected, Raila’s legacy belongs to the people, and his burial should mirror the life he lived—public, bold, and unifying.
The controversy surrounding Raila’s final send-off underscores the tension between personal privacy and public symbolism when it comes to national figures. As one of Kenya’s most influential leaders, Raila Odinga’s death has not only left a political vacuum but also stirred emotions about how his legacy should be honored. Miguna’s remarks, though harsh, echo the frustrations of many Kenyans who feel that the man they considered “Baba wa Taifa” deserves a burial befitting his lifelong struggle for justice.
Miguna Miguna’s fiery criticism of the plans to bury Raila Odinga privately highlights the profound emotional and political weight of Raila’s legacy. His question—“Mbona mnataka kuzika Raila kama mwizi?”—is not just an attack on the organizers but a passionate plea for transparency, respect, and inclusion. Whether or not the burial plans change, one thing remains certain: Raila’s impact on Kenya’s history cannot be hidden, silenced, or confined behind closed doors. He will forever remain a towering figure whose life and death continue to shape the soul of the nation.
