Stampede Mars Raila Odinga’s State Funeral as Nation Pays Final Respects

 

By Esther Namarome 

A stampede broke out at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday during the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, leaving at least 18 people injured as crowds surged toward the area designated for public viewing of his body.

According to Reuters, 17 people were hospitalized following the incident and were taken to Kenyatta National Hospital for treatment. The stampede occurred despite heightened security measures, which had been tightened following unrest during a previous public viewing that turned deadly when police opened fire to disperse crowds.

Thousands of mourners had gathered at the stadium from the early hours of the morning, waving white handkerchiefs, dancing, and carrying twigs — symbols of peace — in honor of the late statesman. Despite the unfortunate incident, the day unfolded with solemnity, national symbolism, and deep emotion as Kenya bade farewell to one of its most iconic political figures.

As part of the honors, Raila’s body had earlier lain in state in Parliament — a privilege typically reserved for presidents — underscoring the immense national reverence for the former Prime Minister.

Dignitaries and Protocol

The State Funeral drew a host of dignitaries including President William Ruto, leaders from the judiciary and Parliament, and foreign guests such as Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The ceremony featured military honors, Anglican prayers, and state protocols, including a guard of honor and a 21-gun salute.

According to official infographics outlining the day’s schedule, mourners were expected to be seated by 7 a.m. The service began shortly thereafter, with Raila’s body later transported to the family’s Karen residence. The final burial is scheduled for Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.

Emotional Family Tributes

The most poignant moments came from Raila Odinga’s family, who offered heartfelt tributes reflecting both the public and private sides of the man Kenyans called “Baba.”

Winnie Odinga, his youngest daughter, shared that she was by his side in India when he passed.

“He died in my arms … he died strong, with dignity and pride,” she said through tears. She recalled his determination in his final days, urging Kenyans to keep walking “strong and proud.”

“To the world he had many titles. To me, he was just ‘Dad.’”

Rosemary Odinga, another daughter, recounted the moment her brother broke the news of their father’s death. She described Raila as a man of integrity, wisdom, and compassion — someone who led by example, valued dialogue, and forgave easily.

“He gave us space to grow, to think, to be heard. He taught us to serve with purpose.”

Other family members and speakers echoed themes of sacrifice, resilience, humility, and Raila’s enduring commitment to public service over power.

Legacy Beyond the Presidency

Despite never attaining the presidency after five attempts, Raila Odinga’s legacy as a reformist, statesman, and tireless advocate for democracy remains unmatched. Speakers highlighted his role in shaping Kenya’s political evolution — from championing multi-party democracy in the 1990s, to initiating constitutional reforms, and fostering national unity through the 2018 Handshake with former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

As Kenya prepares for Raila’s final burial in Bondo, the nation reflects not only on his political milestones, but on the personal virtues that defined him: humility, conviction, compassion, and unwavering belief in the Kenyan people.“He may not have been president, but he led a nation,” said one speaker, summarizing the mood of a grieving yet grateful country.