Mourners breach protocol, enter compound as Raila is laid to rest in Bondo
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 19, 2025Despite strict security and limited access, hundreds of mourners on Sunday afternoon, October 19, 2025, breached protocol and forced their way into Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, saying they could not be left out of Raila Amolo Odinga’s final farewell.
The former prime minister was buried in a private ceremony attended by President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, close family members, military officers, and church leaders.
As the coffin was lowered into the grave, seventeen shots rang through the air in a final salute by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). Raila was laid to rest beside his mother, Mary Ajuma Odinga, as per his wish. Inside the grave lay his iconic hat and fly whisk, personal symbols that defined his authority, courage, and deep connection to his heritage.
Immediately after Ruto was cleared to leave, hundreds of mourners made their way to the compound, eager to witness the final rituals for the former prime minister. This forced a team picked to prepare the grave to hurriedly cover it with iron sheets.
Nonetheless, the security officials managed to control the surging crowd, allowing them to observe from a distance.
Flag handed to Ida
The KDF later folded the national flag that had draped the coffin and handed it to Mama Ida Odinga in a solemn gesture of respect. The moment was marked by silence as she received it with bowed head and tearful dignity.
Church leaders led a brief prayer and a minute of silence before declaring the ceremony complete. However, the crowd outside surged past the security barriers, saying they wanted to witness the final moments of “Baba’s” burial.
President Ruto, who attended the ceremony, described Raila as a national hero and mentor whose influence would live on.
“Raila Odinga was not just a leader of a party; he was a leader of a people. His vision for Kenya will continue to guide us,” Ruto said.
He also recognised Raila’s longtime aide, Maurice Ogeta, for his loyalty, recalling their early days in ODM when Ogeta stood by Raila through difficult times.