The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced a change to the funeral arrangements for the late former Prime Minister and party leader, Raila Amolo Odinga, citing unavoidable circumstances that necessitated adjustments to the original plan.
In a statement released on Friday, October 17, 2025, ODM’s Director of Communications, Philip Etale, confirmed that the national funeral committee had decided against taking the late leader’s body to his Karen residence for an overnight stay, as had initially been scheduled.
“The national funeral committee wishes to announce to the public that due to unavoidable circumstances, the body of the late Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga will not be taken to his Karen residence for overnight stay as earlier planned,” the statement read in part.
The ongoing public viewing at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi will continue as planned, giving Kenyans an opportunity to pay their final respects to the veteran politician who played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s democracy over the decades. Thousands of mourners from across the country have been streaming into the stadium since morning, reflecting the nation’s deep appreciation and respect for his legacy.
Following the public viewing, the body will be transported back to Lee Funeral Home for preservation ahead of the final journey to Kisumu. ODM indicated that the airlift is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, marking a key step in the burial process that will culminate with the interment in Siaya County on Sunday.
“After public viewing that is currently going on at the Nyayo National Stadium, it will be taken back to the Lee Funeral Home for preservation in readiness for airlifting to Kisumu tomorrow morning,” the party said.
The statement also offered apologies for any inconvenience caused by the change and thanked Kenyans for their patience, prayers, and respect during this period of national mourning. “We apologise for the inconvenience caused,” it concluded.
Widely known as “Baba,” Raila Odinga passed away earlier this week, prompting widespread grief and reflections on his enduring contribution to Kenya’s political transformation—from the fight for multiparty democracy to national reconciliation.
His death has been described as the end of an era, marking the loss of a figure who left an indelible mark on the nation.
Since Thursday, Nyayo National Stadium has served as the central venue for the state funeral events, drawing leaders from across the political spectrum, clergy, and international dignitaries to honour Odinga’s lifelong dedication to public service.
The atmosphere has been solemn yet unifying, as Kenyans come together to celebrate a legacy defined by resilience, reform, and patriotism.
ODM emphasized that the change in the funeral programme was logistical, ensuring that the late leader’s remains are properly preserved and treated with the dignity befitting his stature.
The national committee coordinating the arrangements is working closely with both state and county officials to facilitate a seamless transition from Nairobi to Kisumu, and finally to his resting place in Bondo, Siaya County.
As preparations for the airlift and state burial advance, Kenyans continue to converge at Nyayo Stadium for the final public farewell in the capital, a moment symbolizing the nation’s collective gratitude to a leader whose vision transcended politics.