Leaders urge calm ahead of Raila Odinga’s burial
As preparations for the state funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga enter their final stages, leaders from across Nyanza have issued a strong appeal for peace, order, and unity during the mourning period.
Speaking on Friday, October 17, 2025, in Bondo, Nyanza Regional Commissioner Flora Mworoa emphasised the importance of maintaining calm and dignity throughout the ceremonies, warning against attempts to disrupt the proceedings.
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“We are mourning our departed hero and calling upon our people to be peaceful. That is all we are asking. We have information that some political elements are planning to disrupt these activities. We know them, and we know what they are planning,” she said.
She confirmed that security meetings have been ongoing since the announcement of the funeral, with comprehensive plans in place to ensure a peaceful farewell.
“This is not the time to show supremacy or popularity. We urge our young people not to allow themselves to be used. We are here to honour our leader, and we must do so with respect,” she added.
The body of the late Raila will be viewed at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu on Saturday, October 18, 2025, morning. Organizers are urging the public to arrive early to avoid the logistical challenges witnessed in Nairobi earlier in the week.
“Let what happened in Nairobi not happen here in Nyanza. We must finish the viewing in time and bring the body home with dignity,” Mworora said.
On his part, Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi echoed the call for order and hospitality, noting that many guests will be visiting Bondo for the first time.
“We must be good hosts. This is not a time for politics. Leaders should come with humility to mourn Raila and give him a befitting send-off,” Atandi said.
He also thanked President William Ruto for granting Raila Odinga a state funeral, a rare honor previously accorded only to three former presidents.
“We appreciate the President’s humility and support. Raila is now part of history, and we will receive the President and his guests warmly,” he added.
Gideon Ochanda, MP for Bondo, described the funeral as “very unique” due to the short preparation window and the magnitude of the event. He urged the local community to remain calm and vigilant.
“We want total peace. Let’s reduce the dramatic mourning that resembles demonstrations. This funeral cannot be equated to any other in our region,” Ochanda said.
He warned against individuals attempting to exploit the funeral for personal or political gain.
“If you are coming here with your own agenda, please stay away. We want to bury Raila with the honor he deserves, not chaos,” he said.
