Karen Nyamu clarifies why she was busy on Snapchat during Raila’s burial
Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has addressed the viral images showing her occupied on her phone during the funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Sunday, October 19, 2025, explaining that her actions were part of attending to everyday responsibilities.
The late ODM leader was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, in a ceremony attended by thousands of mourners, including national leaders, diplomats, politicians, and ordinary citizens.
You might also like
The funeral marked the end of a transformative era in Kenyan politics, with participants paying tribute to Raila’s decades-long commitment to democracy, justice, and national service.
Nyamu’s attention became a topic of discussion online after photos circulated, showing her on her phone during portions of the service.
Some images gave the impression that she was editing photos or otherwise disengaged from the proceedings, sparking widespread debate on social media.
The senator, in an Instagram story on Monday, October 20, 2025, however, clarified that the photos being circulated were a video of herself driving with her children in the back seat, which she had been watching during the funeral.
She explained that the video was on zero volume, ensuring that she did not distract anyone during the solemn event.
“So apparently that’s the video I was just watching my babies’ videos on Snapchat during speeches on zero volume. Mama things,” she wrote.
The short clip depicted her children speaking to her and requesting to be taken swimming, with Nyamu responding while keeping them safe and entertained.
The senator then made another post and explained that from the moment she arrived at Kisumu airport, she found herself occasionally distracted, as her mind wandered amidst the gravity of the event.
“Bondo, Siaya County. I’d be lying if I said I was fully present at the ceremony. At one point I caught myself wondering, ati tunafanya nini hapa?”
She reflected on Raila Odinga’s life, considering the struggles he endured and the sacrifices he made for the country.
Nyamu acknowledged that, even while physically present at the funeral, she had moments of introspection and contemplation about his journey and the impact he had on the nation.
“Who else keeps asking themselves whether Baba fought for his life thinking about us, or if he simply gave in and let go, too ready for rest after everything he had been through?”
The burial itself was a moving display of national appreciation for Raila’s service.
His casket, draped in the national flag, was lowered into the grave under the watch of military personnel, who carefully folded the flag before presenting it to Ida Odinga.
A 17-gun salute followed, and family members, dignitaries, and ordinary citizens gently laid flowers onto the grave.
Author
Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
View all posts by Steve Ireri
