Oburu Odinga condoles Ida Odinga at her Karen home.
By Kimberly Kalusi
Confusion and emotion filled Nairobi on Monday after plans to move Raila Odinga’s body to Parliament Buildings for public viewing were unexpectedly halted, sparking questions and speculation among supporters and political observers alike.
According to sources close to the National Funeral Steering Committee, the decision to delay the procession was reached following “logistical and security concerns” raised late Sunday night. Officials cited crowd control challenges, unfinished preparations inside Parliament, and coordination delays between the family and state protocol teams.
“There were genuine concerns about safety and the huge crowds expected along the route,” said a senior official involved in the arrangements. “The committee resolved to make adjustments to ensure order and dignity during the viewing.”
The convoy, which was expected to leave Lee Funeral Home early Monday morning, was held back as meetings continued between government protocol officers, security commanders, and the Odinga family.
By mid-morning, hundreds of supporters had gathered outside Parliament, waving flags and chanting liberation songs, unaware of the change in schedule. Police were later deployed to calm the growing crowd and direct mourners to Uhuru Park, where the body will now lie in state temporarily before being moved to Parliament later in the week.
Family representatives downplayed the confusion, saying the delay was necessary to allow for better coordination.
“We appreciate Kenyans’ patience and respect for Baba,” a family spokesperson said. “The arrangements are ongoing, and the public will have the opportunity to pay their last respects very soon.”
Security sources confirmed that several agencies were working to manage large turnouts expected throughout the mourning period, describing the logistics as “among the most complex in recent national history.”
The late Raila Odinga, a veteran opposition leader and symbol of Kenya’s democracy struggle, is set to be accorded full state honors. His final resting place will be in Bondo, Siaya County, following a week-long series of national tributes.
