Raila Odinga Funeral in Bondo

By Kimberly Kalusi

Kenya on Sunday bid farewell to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga with a solemn and historic state funeral in Bondo, Siaya County, marking the end of an era in the nation’s political history.

The ceremony, held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, was attended by President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, opposition leaders, and dignitaries from across Africa.

Odinga, who died last week after decades at the heart of Kenya’s political life, was honoured with a 17-gun salute, full military honours, and a flag-draped coffin — the highest tribute ever accorded to a civilian leader in the country.

The emotional ceremony captured the weight of Odinga’s legacy as a freedom fighter, reformist, and statesman who shaped Kenya’s democratic journey for more than half a century.

President Ruto hailed Odinga as “a political giant and patriot who gave his all for Kenya,” describing him as a mentor and rival who “challenged power to make our democracy stronger.”

“The foundations of Kenya are shaken. The soul of our nation is aching because of the demise of Raila Odinga, the people’s president,” Ruto said.

Mama Ida Odinga, in a moving tribute, described her husband as a man of courage and compassion who “lived for others and never for himself.” She thanked Kenyans for standing with the family through their moment of grief.

Siaya Governor James Orengo urged the country to protect the democratic ideals Odinga fought for, warning that his legacy must not be reduced to speeches.
“The legacy of Raila Amolo Odinga will not be kept by mere words. We must ensure the freedoms he fought for are never lost,” he said.

The 17-gun salute echoed across Bondo as Odinga’s casket was lowered into the ground beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, sealing a family lineage that has defined Kenya’s political landscape for six decades.

As the sun set over Lake Victoria, Kenyans across the nation mourned not just a leader — but a symbol of resistance, unity, and unyielding hope.