The Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been laid to rest following days of national remembrance. Thousands gathered in western Kenya on Sunday as Odinga was buried at his family homestead in Bondo, concluding a week of memorial events. His casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was carried by military personnel amid solemn tributes from politicians, relatives, and supporters.
Speaking at the service, Odinga’s son, Raila Odinga Jr., said, ‘Now finally Baba is home.’ Many in attendance held up Kenyan flags and portraits of the late leader, celebrating his decades-long devotion to democracy and public service.
Odinga passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80 while receiving treatment at a hospital in India. Over his political career, he served as prime minister following the disputed 2007 election and was a central opposition figure, contesting five presidential elections, including one just three years ago.
The late leader’s influence extended far beyond Kenya. Former U.S. President Barack Obama, whose family roots trace back to western Kenya, described Odinga as a ‘true champion of democracy.’
Sunday’s memorial service featured tributes from President William Ruto, who reflected on Odinga’s lifelong dedication to justice, unity, and democracy. In a post on Facebook, President Ruto wrote, ‘His courage, his vision, and his unyielding faith in our collective destiny will forever illuminate the path of our nation.’
Odinga’s final resting place is near his late father’s homestead, where a family mausoleum stands. Earlier memorial events included a state funeral in Nairobi on Friday and a public viewing in Kisumu on Saturday, which drew tens of thousands of mourners. Tragically, chaotic scenes at the Kisumu viewing resulted in at least three deaths and dozens of injuries.
Despite the sorrow, supporters continue to honor Odinga’s enduring legacy, calling him a hero who inspired generations. His burial marks not just the end of a national mourning period, but a celebration of a life devoted to Kenya’s democratic ideals.
Reporting by Ehud Jones
