The long and remarkable journey of Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Amollo Odinga, will come to an emotional close on Sunday, when he is laid to rest at his father’s homestead, Kang’o ka Jaramogi, in Bondo, Siaya County.
President William Ruto is expected to lead the nation in paying its final respects to the late opposition leader, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in India. In his tribute, the President described Raila as a towering statesman whose contributions to Kenya’s democracy and governance will forever remain etched in history.
President Ruto announced that the government will accord Raila a state funeral with full military honors, befitting his stature as a former Prime Minister and one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. From the moment his body arrived from India, the military has been in charge of all ceremonial aspects of the funeral — a clear indication of the state’s recognition of his immense contribution to the nation.
On Sunday, the final chapter of Raila’s journey will be marked by a 19-gun salute, a rare and solemn honor reserved for individuals who have served the nation at the highest levels. The 21-gun salute, the highest military honor, is traditionally reserved for the sitting President — the Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.
Even so, the 19-gun salute signifies deep respect and acknowledgment of Raila’s service, sacrifice, and leadership. His tenure as Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013, alongside his decades of political activism, earned him global recognition as a champion of democracy and reform.
From his early years as a fearless opposition figure to his later role as a unifying national leader, Raila’s life has been one of resilience, courage, and relentless pursuit of justice. His struggle against dictatorship and his advocacy for multiparty democracy defined Kenya’s political transformation and inspired generations.
The state funeral, expected to attract local and international dignitaries, will mark a historic moment in Kenya’s history — not just as the burial of a leader, but as the farewell of a national icon whose vision and spirit reshaped the country’s democratic landscape.
Military officers will oversee the ceremony, with the national flag draped over his coffin — a symbol of honor, patriotism, and the unity he fought to preserve. The military helicopter that transported his body to Bondo and the precision of the funeral arrangements reflect the solemn dignity with which the nation is bidding him goodbye.
As thousands gather in Bondo and millions follow the ceremony across the country, Kenya will not just be mourning a political legend, but celebrating a life that defined an era. Raila Odinga’s name will live on — not just in the pages of history, but in the hearts of those who believe in a freer, fairer, and more united Kenya.
Indeed, as the 19-gun salute echoes across the Bondo skies, it will serve as a final, powerful tribute to a man who gave his life to the service of his nation — and whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
