…..Kenyan leader declares period of mourning as funeral committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kindiki and Oburu Odinga begins preparations
NAIROBI-(MaraviPost)-President William Ruto has postponed all his public engagements following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, marking a somber moment in Kenya’s political and national history.
The decision was announced early Wednesday morning from State House, where President Ruto met with senior government officials and members of the Odinga family to discuss national mourning arrangements.
Ruto described Raila Odinga as “a statesman, patriot, and champion of democracy” whose contribution to Kenya’s political transformation will be remembered for generations.
He expressed deep sorrow over Odinga’s passing, calling it a monumental loss not only to the Odinga family but also to the entire nation that has benefited from his decades of public service and political struggle.
The President urged all public servants to suspend non-essential engagements during the mourning period, emphasizing the need for reflection, unity, and respect for Odinga’s enduring legacy.
Ruto noted that Odinga’s lifelong commitment to multiparty democracy and good governance has shaped the modern political landscape of Kenya and inspired many across Africa.
To ensure that the funeral arrangements are handled with dignity and inclusivity, President Ruto announced the establishment of a national funeral committee.
The committee will be co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother and long-time political ally.
Their joint leadership symbolizes the spirit of national unity that Raila Odinga always championed, bridging political divides in moments of grief and remembrance.
Sources within government indicate that the committee will oversee all logistical and ceremonial aspects of the funeral, working closely with the family and county authorities in Siaya, Odinga’s home region.
National flags across all public institutions and foreign missions will fly at half-mast until the day of the funeral, in honor of the late opposition leader.
Ruto also directed that condolence books be placed at key public offices, including Parliament Buildings, the Supreme Court, and major government ministries, to allow citizens to express their sympathy and reflections on Odinga’s legacy.
Kenyans from all walks of life have continued to share tributes, recalling Raila Odinga’s courage during the struggle for democracy and his tireless efforts to unite a nation often divided along ethnic and political lines.
The former Prime Minister’s passing has brought together allies and rivals alike, demonstrating the magnitude of his influence and the respect he commanded even among his fiercest opponents.
As the nation enters a period of mourning, calls for peace, reflection, and unity are echoing across Kenya — a fitting tribute to the man whose political journey embodied resilience, dialogue, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Funeral details are expected to be announced in the coming days, once consultations between the family, the government, and the funeral committee are finalized.
President Ruto concluded his statement by assuring Kenyans that the government will give Raila Odinga a befitting farewell, worthy of his immense contributions to Kenya’s democracy and nationhood.
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