Thousands gather at Nyayo Stadium to honour late former PM Raila Odinga

There was an outpouring of emotion as Kenyans from all walks of life turned up for the state funeral service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to pay their final respects.

The mourners erupted into songs, wails, and cries the moment the flag-draped casket, escorted by the military, made its way into the packed Nyayo Stadium.

Emotions ran high as the cortege made its final lap of honour around the stadium.

Raila, one of Kenya’s most influential political figures who served the people of Langata Constituency for 15 years, commanded passionate devotion from his supporters despite five unsuccessful presidential bids.

Fondly known as “Baba”, meaning father, the veteran opposition leader died on Wednesday morning at the age of 80 in India, where he had been receiving treatment.

Unlike Thursday’s public viewing at Kasarani Stadium, which was initially characterised by disorder and chaos, the funeral service attended by several foreign leaders, including the Presidents of Ethiopia and Somalia proceeded seamlessly.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, the Vice Presidents of Tanzania and South Sudan, Philip Mango and Rebecca Garang respectively, and Rwanda’s Interior Minister, Vincent Biruta.

Security was beefed up with heavy police presence and medical teams on standby to ensure a smooth flow of the ceremony.

After tributes and speeches concluded at 1:15 pm, the massive crowd was accorded an opportunity to view the body which is lying in state.

Earlier in the morning, President Ruto led Members of Parliament in viewing at Parliament Buildings before proceeding to Nyayo Stadium.

The National Funeral Committee has announced that due to “unavoidable circumstances,” the body of the late former PM Raila Odinga will not be taken to his Karen residence for an overnight stay.

It will instead be preserved at the Lee Funeral Home and airlifted to Kisumu Saturday morning before proceeding to his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where final burial preparations are underway for the final journey on Sunday.