Thousands mourn Raila Odinga as body arrives at JOOUST for final farewell
Raila Odinga’s death has been described as the closing of a chapter in Kenya’s political history marked by resilience, conviction, and unrelenting belief in a better Kenya.
The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrived at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo on Sunday morning, where thousands of mourners gathered to bid farewell to a man many regard as Kenya’s greatest reformist.
As the motorcade entered the university grounds, emotional chants of “Baba! Baba!” echoed through the air. Supporters waved twigs, flags and portraits of Raila, celebrating his lifelong dedication to democracy and justice. Many had camped outside the venue overnight to witness the historic moment.
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The atmosphere was sombre yet dignified as Kenyans from across the country filled the venue and its surroundings. Residents of Bondo and visitors from far-flung regions described the day as one that marked the end of an era in Kenya’s political journey.
Raila’s funeral service at JOOUST marks his final public appearance before a private family burial at his Opoda Farm later in the afternoon. According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, only 500 guests will attend the burial ceremony.
By 9:30 a.m., the Odinga family, led by his wife Ida and children Raila Junior, Winnie, and Rosemary, had arrived. They paused at the casket to pay their final respects before proceeding to the main seating area.
Moments later, President William Ruto arrived in the company of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga. The crowd erupted in cheers as dignitaries took their seats.
Several current and former high-ranking officials, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and former Chief Justice David Maraga, were also present.
Raila, who passed away on Wednesday in India at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment for cardiac arrest, leaves behind a legacy etched deeply in Kenya’s political and social fabric.
His body was earlier received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu before being flown to Bondo for an overnight vigil at his Opoda Farm.
Throughout the week, Kenyans have poured into the streets in mourning, waving twigs and singing solemn songs as they paid tribute to a man many credit with transforming the nation’s democratic landscape.
Born to Kenya’s first vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila’s political journey spanned over four decades. He endured detention, exile, and persecution as he fought for multiparty democracy and constitutional reform.
He was a central figure in the push for the 2010 Constitution, remembered as a bold, visionary leader who championed equality, devolution, and justice for all Kenyans.
Raila Odinga’s death has been described as the closing of a chapter in Kenya’s political history marked by resilience, conviction, and unrelenting belief in a better Kenya.
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