Thousands of Kenyans, alongside national and international dignitaries, are converging at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi for the State Funeral service of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The two-hour ceremony, commencing at 9:00 AM EAT, is a key part of a four-day national mourning period declared by President William Ruto following Odinga's passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

The State Funeral, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Senator Oburu Oginga, Odinga's elder brother, will feature full military honours, a church sermon led by the Anglican Church of Kenya, eulogies from the family, and tributes from Kenyan and foreign leaders. Guests were advised to be seated by 8:30 AM EAT. Following the official service, public viewing of Odinga's body will continue at Nyayo Stadium from 12:00 PM EAT to allow more Kenyans to pay their last respects.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Amolo Odinga, born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Kenya, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over five decades. The son of Kenya's first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila's political career was defined by a relentless pursuit of democracy and constitutional reform. He was a central figure in the 'Second Liberation' movement that pushed for multi-party democracy in the early 1990s, a period that saw the repeal of Section 2A of the constitution.

Odinga endured significant personal cost for his activism, including nearly nine years in detention without trial during President Daniel arap Moi's regime, following accusations of involvement in the 1982 coup attempt. Despite running for president five times unsuccessfully (in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022), he profoundly shaped Kenya's democratic landscape. His most impactful run was in 2007, where disputed results led to widespread post-election violence, ultimately resulting in a power-sharing agreement that saw him serve as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

While State Funerals in Kenya are public ceremonies honouring individuals of national significance, the country currently lacks a single codified law outlining all requirements and procedures. Protocols are largely guided by tradition, executive practice, and presidential discretion. A State Funeral is typically declared by the sitting President, who also announces a period of national mourning during which flags are flown at half-mast. Full military honours are standard for sitting or former presidents, and can be extended to other distinguished individuals upon authorization by the Defence Council, recognizing their national contribution.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The State Funeral Committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, has been instrumental in coordinating the elaborate four-day programme. The committee acknowledged the overwhelming turnout of mourners during the public viewing at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, which necessitated an extension of viewing opportunities. President William Ruto declared a seven-day national mourning period and confirmed that Odinga would be accorded a State Funeral with full military honours.

Evidence/Data Box

• Date of Passing: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest in India
• National Mourning Period: Seven days, declared by President William Ruto
• State Funeral Service: Friday, October 17, 2025, 9:00 AM EAT at Nyayo National Stadium
• Nyayo National Stadium Capacity: Officially listed as 18,000 seats after renovations, though it has hosted 30,000 in the past.
• Burial Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Bondo, Siaya County
• Public Holiday: Friday, October 17, 2025, declared a public holiday to mourn Raila Odinga.

Risks and Implications

The immense public turnout witnessed during the initial viewing at Kasarani Stadium highlighted the challenges of managing large crowds during such a significant national event. The lack of a fully codified law for State Funerals in Kenya can lead to inconsistencies in protocols and potential ambiguities in public expectations. Ensuring security and maintaining order while accommodating public grief remains a key consideration for the organising committee.

Unknowns and Controversies

While the State Funeral programme is largely set, the precise number of foreign heads of state and government attending the Nyayo Stadium service remains to be fully confirmed, though Deputy President Kindiki indicated a significant number had confirmed. The full extent of Odinga's personal wishes regarding his funeral, beyond the 72-hour interment timeframe, has not been publicly detailed.

Timeline and Next Steps

The four-day State Funeral programme for Raila Odinga culminates with his burial on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. On Saturday morning, October 18, 2025, Odinga's body will be flown from Nairobi to Kisumu for a public viewing at Moi Stadium from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM EAT, before being transported by road to Bondo for an overnight stay.

What to Watch

Attention will now turn to the proceedings at Nyayo National Stadium, particularly the addresses by national and international leaders, which are expected to reflect on Odinga's enduring legacy. The public viewing session after the main service will also be closely monitored for crowd management. The final burial ceremony in Bondo on Sunday will combine State protocol with Anglican Church of Kenya traditions, as per Odinga's faith.