Thousands of mourners filled Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on Friday as Kenya came together to honour the life and legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga a towering figure in the nation’s political history.
The memorial ceremony, held under tight security and solemn dignity, marked a defining moment in Kenya’s week of mourning following Raila’s death on Wednesday morning in India, where he had been receiving treatment. The former Prime Minister passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, reform, and an unwavering pursuit of justice.
The stadium overflowed with citizens from every corner of the country from grassroots supporters to national leaders all gathered to celebrate the life of a man whose influence transcended generations and political divides.
A heavy security presence ensured order throughout the event, with medical teams stationed across the venue to handle the large crowds.
The service drew a distinguished guest list of leaders from across Africa, reflecting Raila’s stature beyond Kenya’s borders. Among those in attendance were Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, Tanzania’s Vice President Philip Mango, South Sudan’s Vice President Rebecca Garang, and Rwanda’s Interior Minister Vincent Biruta.
Political leaders from across Kenya’s divide allies and former rivals alike joined the Odinga family in mourning, setting aside differences to pay their final respects to a man long regarded as one of the continent’s most steadfast champions of democracy.
