The National Assembly on Wednesday morning suspended its proceedings following the passing of Opposition Chief and ODM Party Leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
A visibly shaken Speaker Moses Wetang’ula made the announcement moments after news of Odinga’s death broke, throwing the country and the House into mourning.
Invoking his authority under Standing Order Number One, Wetang’ula halted all parliamentary business and directed Members of Parliament to reconvene later in the afternoon for an official communication.
“I will invoke my authority under Standing Order Number One, and I direct as follows: the sitting this morning is adjourned. We will have a sitting at 2:30 PM this afternoon, where the Speaker will give you important communication. For now, the House stands adjourned to 2:30 PM this afternoon,” said Wetang’ula in a solemn tone.
The brief announcement marked a rare moment of silence and reflection within the chamber, as legislators absorbed the devastating news of the veteran leader’s death.
Odinga, widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was a central figure in shaping the country’s democratic journey over the past four decades.
His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across the nation, with flags expected to fly at half-mast as leaders and citizens alike mourn the loss of a statesman who defined Kenya’s political landscape.
