Kang’o Kajaramogi, Siaya County, Oct’ 19, 2025– Former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga was on Sunday laid to rest at his rural home in Kang’o Kajaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County, in an emotional ceremony attended by thousands of mourners from across the country and beyond.
The burial brought together current and former leaders, diplomats, clergy, and citizens who came to pay tribute to the man hailed as the father of Kenya’s modern democracy.
The requiem mass led by the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) ended at around 16:08 and At exactly 16:52 pm Raila’s casket was lowered in the grave his final resting place, attracting a painful cry from the family and close relatives.
President William Ruto recounted how he received the shocking news of Raila’s death, describing it as a painful moment for the nation. He revealed that he personally worked with government agencies to ensure the safe return of Raila’s body to the country and to fulfill the former Prime Minister’s wish to be buried within 72 hours.
“We worked hand in hand with the family to honor Raila’s will. He was not just a leader but a national icon, and it was our duty to ensure his final wishes were respected,” President Ruto said.
Ruto further pledged to continue the development agenda he and Raila had agreed on, saying the government would implement it indiscriminately across the country. He also assured ODM leaders that he would continue to work with them, emphasizing that the ODM Party remains part of the government.
“We agreed with Raila that ODM would be in government. Those who think they can remove ODM from government should know that will not happen under my watch,” Ruto declared.
In a compassionate gesture, President Ruto also announced that Raila’s long-serving personal assistant Maurice Ogeta and other members of Odinga’s secretariat would be absorbed into government roles. He said this was in recognition of their loyalty and years of service to the late leader.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta described Raila as a true statesman who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
“Raila has served this nation, united its people, and fought for justice and democracy. Kenya has lost a great son whose contribution to our freedom and unity will never be forgotten,” Uhuru said.
Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki also paid tribute to the late leader, describing him as a visionary whose dream for a just Kenya transcended politics.
“He stood for justice, equity, and good governance — values we must continue to uphold,” Faki said during a candlelight vigil held earlier in Mombasa ahead of the burial.
During the funeral, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna reaffirmed the party’s strength and independence, stating that ODM would not be absorbed into the Kenya Kwanza administration but would remain steadfast in pursuing Raila’s vision.
“ODM was left in Ruto’s government, but we are not in the opposition. We are either in government or we form the government in 2027,” Sifuna stated, pledging to keep the party strong and united.
The burial accelerates arked the 7 days of national mourning during which Kenyans from all walks of life paid tribute to Raila’s decades of struggle for democracy, justice, and equality.
The week-long mourning ends on October 22, 2025.
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, was a central figure in Kenya’s push for multi-party democracy. His political journey — spanning over four decades — was defined by courage, sacrifice, and a tireless commitment to a fairer, more inclusive nation.
