Former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga was laid to rest today, Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his family’s home in Kang’o ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County. The ceremony was a dignified and historic send-off, marked by full military honours conducted by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

The decision to accord Raila an official funeral with full national and military honours came from President William Ruto, in recognition of the opposition leader’s decades-long contribution to the country’s democratic journey. This was in line with a presidential proclamation issued immediately after his death was announced.

Raila’s casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was solemnly lowered beside the grave of his father, Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

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The family of the Odingas laying their wreaths at the grave site

The 17-Gun Salute

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The most symbolic moment of the burial occurred at exactly 4:53 p.m., when the KDF artillery unit fired 17 rounds into the air.

This powerful salute was both historic and symbolic. In Kenya’s military tradition, a sitting president receives a 21-gun salute, and a former president receives 19 rounds.

The 17-round salute acknowledged Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s political history, even though he never held the presidency.

The blasts echoed across Bondo, symbolising the nation’s deep respect for his lifelong service to democracy, justice, and freedom.

Moments later, a lone bugler sounded the traditional “last post,” marking the conclusion of a statesman’s journey.

President William Ruto laying flowers at the grave site

Leaders Pay Final Tribute

Close family members, national leaders, and foreign dignitaries attended the ceremony. These included President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Nigeria’s former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Earlier in the day, during the funeral service at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), President Ruto led the nation in paying tribute. He described Raila as “a patriot whose courage and vision transformed our republic.”

Ruto also spoke candidly about the personal impact of the death, noting that their relationship had evolved from political rivalry to mutual respect. “Many commentators say this is a big blow for me. Yes, it is. It is a very big blow,” Ruto stated.

Ida Odinga and Winnie Odinga laying their wreaths//The Star

The burial marked the conclusion of a three-day state funeral that saw thousands gather to pay respects to the long-serving opposition leader, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister between 2008 and 2013 under a power-sharing arrangement.

As the final prayers were said, the mood was one of deep reflection, honouring a man who profoundly shaped Kenya’s political destiny.