Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has confirmed that the State Funeral for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will be held at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, commencing at 9:00 a.m. and concluding by 11:00 a.m.
As chair of the National Committee overseeing the funeral arrangements, Kindiki stated that the ceremony will include full military honours, a sermon led by the Anglican Church of Kenya, heartfelt eulogies from family members, and tributes from both national and international dignitaries.
Speaking from his residence in Karen on Thursday, Kindiki expressed appreciation for the thousands of mourners who have continued to honour Odinga with dignity. He urged the public to maintain calm and order as the mourning period enters its second day.
“There will be a State Funeral service at Nyayo Stadium beginning at 9 a.m. Guests are required to be settled by 8 a.m. The two-hour State event will comprise military honours, a church sermon from the Anglican Church of Kenya, eulogy by family, and speeches by leaders and foreign heads of state and government.”
The Deputy President confirmed that numerous foreign dignitaries and heads of state have already committed to attending the funeral ceremony.
On Thursday, the public was granted access to view Raila’s body from approximately 2:30 p.m. at Kasarani Stadium.
Initially, Kindiki had announced that the public viewing would take place at Parliament Buildings from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
However, overwhelming crowds led to chaos and significant delays, prompting a relocation of the venue to Kasarani.
Both the family and the government have urged mourners to maintain calm and observe dignity during this period of national mourning, as preparations for the final farewell to one of the country’s most iconic political figures continue.
Raila’s burial is scheduled for Sunday and will be conducted in accordance with the traditions of the African Church, of which he was a devoted member.
