Meaning of military trumpet and 17-gun salute at Raila Odinga’s burial

As Kenya bid farewell to Raila Odinga at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi on Sunday, October 19, 2025, his state burial was marked by solemn military honours that reflected the life and legacy of the veteran leader.

From the haunting bugle call of “The Last Post” to the thunderous 17-gun salute and a dramatic jet flyover, every ritual carried meaning beyond ceremony, blending history, symbolism, and emotion.

The trumpet’s call

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The bugle call of “The Last Post,” performed by elite KDF buglers from the Presidential Escort Regiment, pierced the quiet of Kang’o Ka Jaramogi as Raila’s flag-draped casket was lowered.

Originating from British military tradition, the call originally signalled the end of the day’s watch for soldiers. In Kenyan state funerals, it marks the final duty of a national figure, honouring service and sacrifice.

At Raila’s burial, the trumpet’s slow, mournful notes were more than ritual. They symbolised a life spent fighting for democracy, justice, and national unity.

Blended with Luo ululations and prayers, it offered a moment of reflection for mourners, a reminder that Baba’s work continues even as he rests.

17-Gun salute

Following the trumpet, the 17-gun salute rang out, a KDF tradition for retired prime ministers. Gun volleys at state funerals signal rank and service: 21 for serving presidents, 19 for retired presidents and senior officials, and 17 for retired prime ministers, former vice presidents, and senior retired military officers.

For Raila, the 17 volleys recognised his tenure as prime minister (2008–2013), his five presidential campaigns, and his pan-African leadership.

Beyond protocol, it corrected a historical oversight: his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, received no gun salute at his 1994 funeral amid political tensions.

Jet flyover

Capping the military honours, Kenya Air Force jets performed a missing man formation flyover. One plane broke away from the V-shaped formation, symbolising Raila’s departure, while the others continued below.

The soaring jets reflected his journey from grassroots activism to national leadership, leaving a visual statement of triumph, continuity, and hope.

From the bugle call to the artillery to the jet flyover, the military honours at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi transformed grief into respect.

They reminded Kenyans that while Baba rests, his legacy courage, leadership, and vision remains alive.