Why Raila Odinga Will Receive a 19-Gun Salute at Bondo Burial

The nation is steeped in mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, Raila Odinga.

Mr Odinga died in India on Wednesday. His body was repatriated to Kenya early on Thursday.

A requiem mass for the beloved leader is scheduled for today at Nyayo Stadium.

The former premier’s body viewing also took place at the Moi International Sports CentreKasarani, following its move from Parliament. The body is set to be interred at his Bondo home on Sunday.

Military Honours for a Statesman

Mr Odinga is expected to receive a significant military tribute during his funeral. He is said to receive a 19-gun salute.

This high honour is accorded to him due to his ranking position. Specifically, the salute reflects his past role as a prime minister and his current designation as a statesman.

Tributes Since Repatriation

The military honours began immediately upon the return of Mr Odinga’s remains. The remains were transported using a military gun carriage.

Officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) handled the remains. These KDF officers were of the rank of a full colonel.

ALSO READ: R.I.P!!! Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has Died

The military ceremony included movement from the airport. This movement proved challenging, taking about 2 and a half hours to cover a journey that normally takes approximately three minutes. This delay was described as a logistical nightmare.

The airport was forced to temporarily shut its airspace for about two hours during the movement. Several morning flights had to be diverted to other airports as a result.

Continuing Guard of Honour

Further honours followed at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani. Mr Odinga’s body was honoured by standing officers.

This solemn troop in line is also known as a guard of honor. The officers stood facing away from the former premier’s body. Their heads were pointed down at a 45-degree angle. This posture was described as a sign of their mourning.

The late leader will remain under military protection until the day of his interment. He will receive a 24-hour guard. The officers maintaining the watch will interchange shifts. These shifts will rotate every three hours.