The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has officially released the burial schedule, confirming that Kenya’s iconic opposition leader will be laid to rest within 72 hours — a wish he personally expressed before his death.
According to close family sources, Raila’s will clearly stated that his burial should not be delayed, reflecting his lifelong belief in simplicity, dignity, and order. The family communicated this wish to President William Ruto, who assured them of the government’s full support in honouring the late leader’s final request.
At 1 a.m., a Kenyan delegation will arrive in Mumbai, India, to oversee the final arrangements for the repatriation of Raila’s body. By 2 a.m., the flight carrying his remains will depart for Nairobi, accompanied by senior government officials, family members, and representatives from the ODM Party.
The plane is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Upon arrival, a brief ceremony will be held before the body is taken to Lee Funeral Home for final preparations.
A solemn procession to State House will take place at 12 noon, where President Ruto and other leaders will pay their respects. This will be followed by a ceremonial tribute at Parliament Buildings beginning at 2 p.m., allowing the public to view the body and celebrate the life of a man who shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
On Friday morning, a national prayer and memorial service will be held at Nyayo Stadium, drawing thousands of citizens, political leaders, and dignitaries from across Africa. The event will be a celebration of Raila’s life, leadership, and enduring impact on the nation.
After the service, the body will be flown to Kisumu, where another public viewing will take place before it is driven to Bondo — the Odinga family’s ancestral home.
On Saturday, Raila Odinga will be laid to rest at his Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, beside the graves of his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and his son, Fidel Odinga. The burial will be conducted under Anglican Church traditions, in line with Raila’s faith and long-standing wishes.
The burial of Raila Odinga will not only mark the end of an era but also the conclusion of a historic chapter in Kenya’s political story. His name will forever be remembered among Africa’s greatest reformers — a man whose courage, resilience, and love for his country transcended politics.
Raila’s legacy lives on — in Kenya’s democracy, in the Constitution he helped shape, and in the hearts of millions who drew inspiration from his unwavering fight for justice and equality.
