Raila’s body arrives at Nyayo National Stadium
The body of Rt Honourable Raila Odinga has arrived at Nyayo National Stadium ahead of a state funeral service led by the Anglican church.
According to a past press briefing by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, the State Funeral Service is expected to begin at 9:00 am, with all guests expected to be seated by 8:00 am.
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However, the body left the Parliament buildings at least thirty minutes late.
“This will be a two-hour state event that will include full military honours, a sermon from the Anglican Church of Kenya, a eulogy by the family, and messages of condolence from Kenya’s leadership as well as visiting heads of state and government,” Kindiki said.
On the other side, thousands of mourners have thronged Nyayo National Stadium as preparations get underway for the state funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
From as early as dawn, queues formed outside the gates as security officers screened attendees before allowing them into the stadium, where the state funeral service is set to take place.
Also watch: From Jomo to Moi to Kibaki – Raila’s farewell pulls record crowds
MPs tribute to Raila in his favourite song
As top leaders broke into an emotional wave at the National Assembly on Friday, October 17, 2025, members of Parliament led by Suba North Constituency Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo led mourners in singing Raila Odinga’s favourite song.
The leaders who were dressed in black outfits brought Raila’s most loved hit to life as leaders led by President William Ruto lined up to pay their tributes to the late Raila Odinga, whose body was laid in Parliament buildings.
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“Down the way where the nights are gay and the sun shines daily on the mountain top, I took a trip on a sailing ship, and when I reached Jamaica, I made a stop,” the Kenyan MPs sang the stanza.
The song, which mirrors the times and life of Raila Odinga, includes a stanza describing the sad events of a loss: ‘But I’m sad to say I’m on my way. Won’t be back for many a day. My heart is down, my head is turning around; I had to leave a little girl in Kingston Town.
The ‘Jamaican Farewell‘ song released by Don Williams was Raila’s favourite hit, as he was often seen singing a stanza so passionately on national television.
