The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday morning for his State Funeral, marking one of the most emotional moments of the day’s proceedings.
Dressed in black, the family’s sombre appearance mirrored the deep sorrow that continues to grip them and the nation following the loss of a man many Kenyans regarded as a father of the nation.
The late statesman’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, appeared visibly shaken as she alighted from the family vehicle, supported closely by her daughter Winnie Odinga, who walked beside her in solidarity.
Mourners in the packed stadium waved handkerchiefs and flags as a gesture of comfort and respect while the family made their way to the VIP section
Accompanying the Odinga family were long-time allies and close friends, among them Safina Party leader Jimmy Wanjigi and lawyer Willis Otieno, who walked alongside Mama Ida and Winnie in a visible show of unity and support.
Their arrival came shortly after that of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, underscoring a rare moment of convergence between family, friends, and state dignitaries in honour of Raila’s towering legacy.
Earlier in the morning, the body of the former Prime Minister had left Parliament Buildings for Nyayo Stadium, marking the next phase of the State Funeral ceremonies.
The procession began shortly after 9:20 a.m., with military pallbearers carrying the flag-draped casket out of Parliament’s main entrance. A ceremonial guard of honour stood at attention as the hearse, escorted by uniformed officers and family members, made its way through Nairobi’s streets.
Crowds lined the route, waving flags, twigs, and holding portraits of the late leader as a final tribute to his lifelong struggle for democracy and justice.
At the stadium, a sea of white handkerchiefs filled the stands as thousands of Kenyans braved the chilly Nairobi morning to celebrate and honour Raila’s life and legacy.
From as early as dawn, mourners streamed into the venue, filling every corner of the stadium ahead of the funeral that was scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.
