Nairobi bid farewell to a political icon respected at home and across Africa at a State Funeral held on Friday 17th October at Nyayo National Stadium.
Early Morning Start
Mourners started trooping into the Stadium at 6am. They came from all corners of Nairobi and surrounding counties, united in grief and celebration.
Final Preparations
It was Raila Odinga’s wish that he be laid to rest within 72 hours of his death. After his death was pronounced in India while undergoing treatment on Wednesday morning, his body had been flown back to Kenya on Thursday and burial set for Sunday 19th at his Bondo home.
At Nyayo Stadium, organisers were literally working around the clock to beat the clock.
Securing the Stadium
After the chaotic scenes during viewing of Raila’s body on Thursday 16th October at Kasarani, security and safety appeared to be a top priority for the organisers, with hundreds of officers deployed around the stadium to ensure the State Funeral program run smoothly.
United in Grief
On the terraces, the number of mourners present kept growing by the minute, drawn by one common goal – to pay their final respects to an enigma with more names than his ID could handle – Raila Amolo Odinga – Jakom, Tinga, Baba Fidel, Agwambo, Jowi.
Prime Minister, MP, Minister, Party Leader, Peace Envoy.
Several choirs were at hand to keep those present entertained.
Final Respects
The arrival of political and diplomatic leaders as well as the Odinga family signalled the day’s main event was about to kick off.
Raila Odinga’s casket followed, arriving atop a gun carriage reserved for momentous events like this one.
It took one clockwise lap around the stadium and was greeted by wild cheers from the mourners present.
Funeral Service
The Anglican Church of Kenya conducted the funeral service where members of the Odinga family eulogised and gave tributes to their father, brother, uncle, grandpa and husband.
President’s Address
When Deputy President Abraham Kithure Kindiki invited former President Uhuru Kenyatta to speak, his introduction and speech were greeted with wild celebratory cheers from the crowd.
It appears we celebrate people more after they have left than when they are with us – Raila included.
Final Bow
After the speeches, dignitaries present were given an opportunity to view Raila’s body one final time.
After that, mourners present were invited to do the same.
Stampede
There was a stampede and two people lost their lives in it.
I question the Police’s decision to have people seated while lining up, while others stood behind them.
Crowd control could have been much better.
Storytellers Present
I had many friends and colleagues by my side on this day. These are some of them.
It is always a joy and pleasure reconnecting with long time colleagues and friends, and making new ones on assignments like these.
