The body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was transported to the Parliament Buildings on Friday, October 17, 2027.
This event occurred just hours before the State Funeral Service. The service is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. today at Nyayo National Stadium.
The Initial Plan Disrupted
The movement of Odinga's remains to Parliament fulfilled a key element of the state funeral protocols. Raila, who died in India on Wednesday aged 80, was a dignitary of immense stature. Protocols dictate that his final rites include the body lying in state.
Originally, the viewing at the legislative buildings was set for Thursday.
"Raila’s body was supposed to lie in state in the parliament buildings on Thursday..."
This honour was, however, thwarted. Chaos and security challenges prevented the public viewing from going ahead.
Security Concerns Force a Change
The late leader’s body was repatriated on Thursday. A chaotic and rowdy crowd surrounded Nairobi, leading to chaotic scenes. Even before the body left the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), security issues were evident.
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Hundreds of mourners overwhelmed security arrangements in Nairobi. Outside Parliament, chaos erupted. Hundreds of youths pushed and shoved, trying to force their way into the compound. They breached razor-wire barriers and attempted to climb the gates.
Due to these severe security concerns and logistical challenges, planners cancelled the viewing at Parliament.
The public viewing was instead swiftly transferred to Kasarani Stadium. This move often happens when exceptionally large crowds are expected for leaders with strong grassroots support.
A Solemn Return for Key Dignitaries
Despite the shift in public viewing, Parliament finally received the former Prime Minister’s body today. Lying-in-State is considered one of the most solemn elements of a State Funeral. It is the highest honour bestowed upon a public servant or national hero.
The purpose of the parliamentary stop on Friday was to allow specific groups to pay their final respects.
"Key dignitaries, including MPs and foreign delegations who did not have the opportunity to view his body, will have the chance to do so."
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Lying in state allows the nation a collective moment to mourn. It offers emotional and symbolic closure to citizens. For Odinga, this formal viewing at the legislative buildings will help "immortalize the man many fondly referred to as Baba".
Historically, this tradition, borrowed from the UK, has been accorded to Kenya’s Presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Arap Moi, and Mwai Kibaki, as well as former Vice President Kijana Wamalwa. Raila Odinga’s final rest at Parliament will now be part of Kenya’s archives.
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