Thousands of Kenyans on Friday filled Nyayo National Stadium for the national memorial service of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga a solemn yet unifying ceremony marked by calls for integrity, peace, and national unity.
Leading the service, Rev. Prof. David Kodia, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Bondo, urged Kenyans to honour Raila’s legacy by embracing selflessness and patriotism, qualities he said defined the fallen statesman’s decades-long public service.
“God granted Raila Odinga the gift of unity and vision,” said Rev. Kodia. “As we celebrate his life, let us see ourselves not through the lens of tribe or region, but as one people bound by a common destiny. Kenya is far too small to be divided by our differences.”
The bishop challenged both leaders and citizens to uphold honesty and the rule of law, saying the best tribute to Raila’s memory would be to fight corruption and build a just society. He warned against the growing influence of money in politics, saying Raila’s strength lay not in wealth but in conviction.
“Raila never used his wallet to win hearts he used ideas, persuasion, and integrity,” he said, drawing applause from the thousands in attendance.
The memorial service, attended by President William Ruto, senior government officials, diplomats, and leaders from across the political divide, marked the second day of the nation’s farewell to a man widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most consequential figures.
From chants of “Baba forever” to emotional hymns and tributes, the atmosphere at Nyayo Stadium reflected both grief and pride — a collective moment of remembrance for a leader whose dream of unity continues to inspire millions.
