KDF takes full control of Kang’o Ka Jaramogi mausoleum ahead of Raila’s burial
By Mabonga Makhanu, October 19, 2025The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have now taken full control of the Kang’o ka Jaramogi Mausoleum, where former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is set to be interred.
The military, which is in charge of the funeral, is set to monitor and restrict any unauthorised access to the mausoleum, where the former prime minister will be buried beside his parents, as he had stated in his will. Only a select few, including family members, close relatives, and top government officials, will be allowed to access the area.
According to reports from the funeral steering committee, this is because the area is too small to accommodate everyone and could lead to a stampede similar to the one experienced at Kasarani Stadium.
This comes after the completion of grave construction works, which were overseen by National Construction Authority (NCA) chair Maurice Akech and have now been finalised.
After leaving Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), where the funeral service will be held and presided over by the Head of State, the procession will proceed to Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Nyamira Village, where the former ODM leader will embark on his eternal rest.
Current situation at JOOUST
Military preparations are currently in top gear at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) ahead of the arrival of the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Top military officials and police officers have been seen working swiftly to ensure everything is ready within the set timelines. They are currently preparing the area where the body of the late premier will be placed. The entire floor where the casket will rest has been covered with a red carpet.
Both officers drawn from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the Military Police have joined hands to ensure smooth coordination for today’s event.
This is part of the military honours that Raila will receive following the president’s proclamation.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has dismissed claims that the family has gone against Raila’s wishes and opted to bury him near his father’s grave instead of his mother’s, as stated in his will. He insisted that nothing could be further from the truth, affirming that the former prime minister wanted to be buried beside both his parents, not either of them, contrary to the circulating speculations.