Ruto, Uhuru view Raila’s body at Kasarani
President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, viewed the body of the late Raila Amolo Odinga at Kasarani Stadium.
The two leaders arrived separately but joined Mama Ida Odinga, Rosemary Odinga, and Raila Junior in paying their final respects to the former Prime Minister.
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The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the leaders stood beside the family, quietly observing the body lying in state.
Security around the VIP area was tight as dignitaries continued to arrive for the viewing, marking one of the most solemn moments of the national farewell to the late opposition leader.
Leaders and dignitaries pay respects
After President Ruto and former President Uhuru viewed the body, cabinet secretaries were called to follow. Among those present were ODM members, including Junet Mohammed, Babu Owino, and Jalang’o, who joined the long list of political and public figures attending the ceremony.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga was also seen at the venue, standing quietly among other leaders as they paid their respects. The programme, which had been shared earlier, indicated that the public viewing was scheduled to begin much earlier, but delays were experienced throughout the afternoon.
Initially, the viewing had been planned to take place at Parliament Buildings, as is the tradition for national leaders. However, organisers later changed the venue to Kasarani Stadium, citing space and logistical concerns given the large number of mourners expected.
Despite the change, thousands of Kenyans still gathered at the stadium grounds, hoping to have a chance to view the body of the man many referred to as Baba. As leaders moved through the formal viewing line, ordinary citizens waited patiently outside, with most of them waiting across the field.
By 5:21 pm on Thursday, the viewing was still ongoing, and hundreds of Kenyans remained at the stadium awaiting their turn. Security personnel maintained order as the ceremony continued into the evening.
The day’s events reflected the scale of respect accorded to Raila Odinga, who for decades played a central role in Kenya’s political landscape. With both President Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta present, the day carried a rare sense of unity.
