Kenya holds state funeral for Raila Odinga

On Fri, Oct 13, 2023, a state funeral service was held in Nairobi, Kenya, for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 80. The service was attended by presidents and representatives from various African nations, as well as thousands of mourners.

Odinga's passing prompted widespread mourning across Kenya. Large crowds gathered at a soccer stadium for an Anglican Church service, where his casket was draped with the national flag. Mourners chanted and displayed portraits of Odinga, with some carrying twigs, symbols of peace and unity in Kenyan tradition.

Security was heightened at the event following an incident the previous day, where three individuals died during a public viewing. At least 10 people were injured when police used live bullets and tear gas to control a crowd attempting to access the pavilion where Odinga's casket was placed.

Raila Odinga, who ran for the Kenyan presidency five times over three decades, was honored in Parliament before the funeral, a distinction typically reserved for presidents and former presidents. President William Ruto recognized Odinga's contribution to Kenya's democratic development, noting his 15-year legislative career.

Odinga's political journey included alliances and rivalries with Ruto, as well as a significant agreement signed this year, which resulted in opposition party members being appointed to cabinet positions following prolonged protests.

Odinga's body will be available for public viewing in Kisumu on Sat, Oct 14, 2023, before his burial on Sun, Oct 15, 2023, in his rural home in Bondo. His family has noted that Odinga wished to be buried quickly, within 72 hours, a departure from the typical practices for prominent leaders in Kenya.

Based on reporting by Africanews.