Government Alters Raila Odinga’s Funeral Programme Once Again
The government has once again changed the funeral arrangements for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced that Raila’s body will now be flown to his Bondo home later today instead of being transported by road as had been planned earlier.
Speaking on Saturday while outlining the day’s programme, PS Omollo explained that the decision was influenced by time limitations, as the public viewing in Kisumu was expected to go on until late in the evening.
“From Mamboleo, Raila’s body will be flown to Bondo. By the time the viewing ends, it will already be late, and we want to get him to Bondo before it gets too late,” Omollo said.
He made the remarks in Bondo after visiting the Odinga home to inspect the ongoing preparations ahead of the body’s arrival later this evening and ahead of Sunday’s funeral ceremony.
According to Omollo, the National Funeral Steering Committee, together with the family, agreed on the change to ensure Raila receives a dignified final journey.
“The body of the former Prime Minister will be flown directly to Bondo. We want to ensure the transition from Kisumu to his home is smooth, organised, and respectful,” he added.
Omollo further revealed that Sunday’s funeral service, which will be held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, will be led by President William Ruto and attended by leaders from across the country and the wider region.
“Tomorrow, we shall have the final burial ceremony with attendance from all over Kenya and neighbouring nations. His Excellency President Ruto will lead the ceremony,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Odinga home in Bondo has been buzzing with activity as close family members continue to arrive.
Among those already present are Mama Ida Odinga and Raila’s elder brother, Oburu Odinga. The family is expected to officially receive the body later today once the public viewing in Kisumu concludes.
Mourners Collapse During Viewing
These developments come amid emotional scenes at the public viewing, where several mourners reportedly collapsed after paying their last respects to Raila Odinga.
Witnesses said that some individuals fainted shortly after viewing Raila’s body inside the stadium, where thousands had gathered to honour the longtime opposition leader.
Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed multiple people lying on the ground as emergency responders, including the Kenya Red Cross and the Kisumu County Disaster Management team, rushed to administer first aid.
Raila’s remains had arrived in Kisumu early on Saturday morning, October 18, at 7:20 am, under tight military escort, marking the start of his final journey through his beloved hometown.
The nation now watches as preparations enter their final stretch ahead of what is expected to be a historic and highly attended farewell.
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