Mourners arrive for Raila Odinga’s funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University in Bondo.

By David Njoroge

Kenya’s long-serving opposition leader, Raila Amolo Odinga was laid to rest this Sunday at his father’s homestead in Kan’go, Bondo, in a ceremony reflecting his lifelong belief in humility and restraint.

Unlike the grand funerals often associated with Luo cultural traditions and political stature, Odinga’s burial will be modest — with no slaughtering of animals, lavish feasts, or multi-day festivities.

According to the Luo Council of Elders, the simplicity was Odinga’s personal wish, captured both in his will and expressed repeatedly during his lifetime.

“Odinga believed that death should not burden families or communities financially. He often said funerals should be simple and resources should not be wasted to feed crowds,” said Maurice Oloo, Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders in Bondo Sub-county.

Oloo noted that traditional Luo customs originally emphasized community support rather than financial extravagance.

“When one died, neighbours brought food to the bereaved. The family did not spend or work during mourning. The recent culture of costly funerals is a distortion of our traditions,” he explained.

Preparations at Opoda Farm and Kan’go Ka Jaramogi have been guided by Odinga’s wish for order, dignity, and simplicity, rather than political display.

Security has been tightened as thousands of mourners, including local and international dignitaries, are expected to attend the service, which will celebrate the late leader’s legacy of sacrifice, humility, and service to the nation.

In Luo Nyanza, funerals are often major social events marked by music, animal slaughter, and prolonged feasting — customs now facing growing scrutiny due to rising costs.

Elder Odida Buoga said Odinga’s wish to be buried within 72 hours aligns with older Luo traditions.

“He wanted to go the traditional way — quick burial, no extravagance. That is how it used to be before modern influence changed everything,” Buoga said.

For many in Nyanza and beyond, Odinga’s final journey will be a symbolic return to simplicity — a reminder that even in death, he remained true to his principles of equality and modest living.