Public viewing for Raila Odinga at Mamboleo extended
Dr Raymond Omollo, announced the decision at the stadium while addressing the press, saying the extension was necessary to accommodate the thousands of Kenyans who had lined up since morning.
The government has extended the time allocated for the public to view the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, beyond the scheduled 3:00 pm deadline, following an overwhelming turnout of mourners eager to pay their final respects.
Principal Secretary for Interior, Dr Raymond Omollo, announced the decision at the stadium while addressing the press, saying the extension was necessary to accommodate the thousands of Kenyans who had lined up since morning.
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He praised the public for maintaining calm and patience during the viewing, which had earlier been scheduled to end at 3.00 pm.
“So far, things are going as planned,” Dr Omollo said. “The security team is doing a commendable job in managing the crowds and ensuring order as we enter the final stretch of preparations before the body is taken home to Bondo.”
Security officers and medical teams remained on high alert throughout the day to ensure order and attend to mourners who appeared fatigued by the long wait. The public viewing began early in the morning, drawing thousands from across the country who converged on Kisumu to pay tribute to the veteran opposition leader.
Dr Omollo assured Kenyans that comprehensive security measures have been put in place ahead of Saturday’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County. He noted that the government was committed to ensuring a dignified and peaceful send-off for the man who played a defining role in Kenya’s political journey.
“We have adequate security arrangements for tomorrow to ensure Raila Odinga receives a befitting burial. The government remains committed to supporting the family and the nation during this time of mourning,” he said.
The body will be transported to Bondo later today, where it will lie overnight before the official burial ceremony takes place tomorrow.
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