President William Ruto on Friday morning led the nation in paying final respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose body lies in state at Parliament Buildings.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, arrived shortly after 8 a.m. to a heavy security presence and a visibly emotional atmosphere.
Wearing dark formal attire, the President walked quietly into the chamber, paused by the casket draped in the national flag, and bowed his head in silence before signing the condolence book. He appeared deeply moved as he spent several minutes writing his message of tribute.
Soon after, members of Raila’s family, including his sister Ruth Odinga and children Raila Jr. and Winnie Odinga, gathered around the casket. In a symbolic moment, Raila Jr. raised a fly whisk above his father’s body as the family stood still, observing cultural and personal rituals in silence.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and Speakers Moses Wetang’ula and Amason Kingi also joined the long list of leaders who turned up to view the body.
The two Speakers received the President at the entrance before accompanying him inside the hall, where several Members of Parliament were already present.
The atmosphere turned emotional as mourners broke into song and prayer, with many crying openly as they chanted “Pamoja na wewe!”—a slogan long associated with the former Prime Minister’s political journey. “It is still hard to believe Baba is gone,” said a mourner at the scene. “He was a man of the people.”
Security remained tight around the precincts of Parliament, with officers from the Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service keeping close watch as the ceremony continued. The late Raila’s body had earlier been escorted into the building by government officials, religious leaders, and family members before being placed in the main foyer for public viewing.
Preparations were also underway for Saturday’s State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, which is expected to draw global attention and high-level delegations from across the world. Police said that about 10,000 officers had been mobilized to ensure order during the event.
According to Nairobi traffic chief Joseph Chirchir, several roads near the stadium would remain closed during the ceremony, and motorists were advised to use alternative routes through Bunyala Road and the city centre. Only guests arriving before 8 a.m. will be allowed inside the stadium as security agencies, including the GSU and other special units, take full control of the venue.