The government has unveiled the official portrait of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, who passed away in India on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

In a statement released to the public on Thursday, October 16, 2025, through Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, the state announced the release of Raila Odinga’s official portrait to be used throughout the national mourning period.

All ministries, departments, and agencies have been directed by Mwaura to use the portrait in their official messages of condolence and on all government communication platforms.

“This is the official portrait of the Rt Hon Raila Odinga. All ministries, departments & agencies are hereby instructed to use it in all messages of condolences in their official channels and platforms of communication,” Mwaura stated.

The unveiling of the portrait marks the second day of the seven-day national mourning period declared by President William Ruto following Raila’s death. Across the country, flags continue to fly at half-mast as Kenyans mourn the passing of a man widely regarded as a symbol of resilience and democracy.

The State has been heavily involved following the demise of Raila Odinga, with the President even being forced to cancel some of his developmental tours that he was set to undertake across the country before the news of Raila Odinga’s demise broke.

Raila’s remains arrive at Kasarani

The remains of the former Prime Minister are now at Kasarani Stadium for public viewing.

The body, which was carried on a gun carriage and escorted by the military as instructed by the President, was accompanied by a multitude of supporters from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, snaking along Thika Superhighway before finally reaching the stadium.

Thousands of supporters joined the procession, while many others had already filled the historic venue. The crowds were uncontrollable and overwhelmed by emotion, chanting different titles that have long defined his political career.

Chants of “Jowi! Jowi!” echoed through the air, lighting up the already charged atmosphere.

This followed a last-minute change of venue for the public viewing from the precincts of Parliament to the 60,000-capacity stadium after crowds became unmanageable at Parliament, where the viewing was initially scheduled.

Some of Raila’s supporters defied security protocols, forcing their way into Parliament grounds, with a few even climbing the gates in an attempt to gain entry.

Currently, the crowds at Kasarani Stadium are uncontrollable, as the arena is now past its capacity. Military police have been forced to use tear gas canisters to disperse the crowds to pave the way for the body to make its way into the stadium.