Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua has observed that the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s directive to be buried within 72 hours could influence future burial practices in Kenya.

In a statement posted on X on October 18, 2025, Mutua described Odinga as a trendsetter, saying, “Baba was the ultimate trendsetter. The practice of ‘bury me within 72 hours’ is likely to become a common clause in many people’s wills moving forward.”

His remarks come as preparations to lay the veteran politician to rest continue, following his death in India on October 15 at the age of 80.

Family’s directive sets a tight timeline

Odinga’s will, read on October 15, directed that his burial take place within 72 hours of his passing. The decision, which aligns with Islamic burial customs despite his Anglican faith, prompted swift action from both the government and his family.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki confirmed the family’s request at Odinga’s Karen home, noting that the burial committee had received official communication from the family and their lawyer. “We have been advised as a committee by the family that it was the wish of Raila Odinga to be buried within the shortest time possible. The family has informed the committee that the timeline is 72 hours,” Kindiki said.

A structured program was set in motion immediately. Odinga’s body was flown back to Kenya and received with full state honors. It was then transferred to Lee Funeral Home on October 16 before lying in state at Parliament Buildings for public viewing from noon to 5 p.m.

State funeral and final journey

A state funeral took place on October 17 at Nyayo National Stadium, attracting thousands of mourners, dignitaries, and international guests. The body was later flown to Kisumu, where it was received by large crowds before being taken to Mamboleo Grounds for public viewing.

Authorities heightened security at Kisumu International Airport to control the massive turnout as plans for the journey to Bondo proceeded.

Emotional scenes played out at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, as thousands of mourners gathered for the final public viewing of the late ODM leader and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga’s body.

Dressed in orange and carrying peace branches, supporters filled the stadium from as early as 5 a.m., singing liberation songs and chanting “Jowi” and “Baba” in a show of unity and reverence. The body, flown from Nairobi to Kisumu by the Kenya Defence Forces, arrived aboard a military aircraft, marking the last public viewing before his burial in Bondo, Siaya County.

The viewing, initially set to start at 9 a.m., was briefly interrupted when political leaders crowded near the dais, obstructing the flow of mourners. Security teams swiftly restored order, allowing the viewing to continue in batches under tight supervision by GSU and KDF officers.

By 9:40 a.m., the first group had paid their respects in a solemn atmosphere that reflected Kisumu’s deep political and emotional connection to Odinga. The event marked the final chance for Kenyans to view his body before it is transported to his ancestral home for burial on October 19, a ceremony expected to attract dignitaries from across the country and beyond.

Cultural implications

The burial is scheduled for October 19 at the Odinga family home in Bondo, Siaya County, and will be conducted according to Anglican traditions. Mutua’s observation points to the possibility of a cultural shift, with Odinga’s decision expected to influence how families plan funerals in future.

Government logistics teams have been working around the clock to ensure the burial program stays on schedule, in line with the wishes of the family and national protocols.