Kenya’s President declares State funeral, week of mourning for Raila Odinga
Kenya has been plunged into mourning following the death of former prime minister Raila Amolo Odinga, a man whose name has long been synonymous with the country’s struggle for democracy and reform.
President William Ruto, in a sombre address from State House on Wednesday night, announced a seven-day period of national mourning and a state funeral for the veteran opposition leader, describing him as “a giant of democracy, a fearless freedom fighter, and one of Africa’s greatest sons.”
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“The flag will fly at half-mast across the Republic and at all our missions abroad,” Ruto said. “Kenya, Africa and the world mourn the passing of a foremost statesman whose story is inseparable from the history of our nation, a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage and hope.”
Odinga, 80, died in the Indian city of Kochi after suffering a cardiac arrest while receiving medical treatment. His death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, one defined by fiery opposition, shifting alliances and an unwavering pursuit of justice.
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Ruto, flanked by deputy president Kithure Kindiki and several cabinet secretaries, said he had formed a funeral committee to coordinate national arrangements in consultation with the Odinga family. The committee will be co-chaired by Kindiki and Siaya senator Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother.
At the request of the Kenyan government, All Africa reported that India has agreed to facilitate the repatriation of Odinga’s remains. A high-level delegation led by prime cabinet secretary Musalia Mudavadi — including cabinet secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Hassan Joho — departed for India on Wednesday night to oversee the process. Odinga’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, is part of the delegation.
Ruto said all his public engagements would be postponed “as a mark of respect.”
“Raila Odinga’s voice spoke for the oppressed, his conviction inspired generations, and his vision shaped the course of our history,” Ruto said.
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Flags will fly at half-mast for seven days. A nation that he helped shape will now pause to remember him — the man they called Baba
