President Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta arrive amid heavy security for Raila’s funeral
By Steve Ireri, October 19, 2025President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo have arrived at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo for the state funeral of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, drawing widespread attention and admiration from mourners.
The arrival of the leaders prompted a momentary halt to the singing and choral tributes being performed in honour of the late premier, as thousands of mourners rose to cheer and acknowledge the presence of the dignitaries.
Watch: Raila Odinga’s funeral service and burial in Bondo
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta received particularly enthusiastic applause, reflecting his deep respect within the political and public spheres, while the inclusion of General Obasanjo added a pan-African dimension to the solemn gathering.
Accompanying the heads of state were Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, and other political figures, including CS Opiyo Wandayi (Energy and Petroleum), CS John Mbadi (Treasury), CS Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), CS Hassan Joho (Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs), George Wajackoyah, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary-General Francis Atwoli was also present, underscoring the high-profile nature of the funeral proceedings.
Security at JOOUST was intensified, with both military and regular police officers stationed throughout the grounds to ensure orderly movement of mourners and officials.
Also watch: Uhuru Kenyatta vows to continue Raila Odinga’s legacy
Narrow corridors leading to the main dais required careful navigation, while KDF officers meticulously oversaw the ceremonial arrangements.
The floor where Raila Odinga’s casket rested was covered with a red carpet, and personnel dressed in maroon tunics, ceremonial hats, and black trousers with red stripes took their positions around the dais.
Earlier at Opoda Farm, just fifteen minutes from the university, preparations for the procession were closely monitored by security personnel.
Mama Ida Odinga, the widow of the late leader, made her first appearance since her husband’s passing to oversee the final arrangements for moving the remains to JOOUST.
Also watch: From Jomo to Moi to Kibaki – Raila’s farewell pulls record crowds
Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, 15th October 2025, at the age of 80 in Kochi, India, following a cardiac arrest, leaves behind a legacy that profoundly shaped Kenya’s democratic and political landscape.
His death has plunged the nation into mourning, drawing thousands of tributes from across Kenya and beyond.
The funeral proceedings at JOOUST are set to include an Anglican Church sermon, followed by military-led rites in accordance with state burial protocols.