President William Ruto has officially opened the state viewing of the late Raila Odinga’s body.

The event took place at Kasarani Stadium, where the public viewing had been scheduled. The President took his time to pay his respects to his former political rival turned ally in the broad-based government.

Raila, who had led the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) since 2005, was dressed in a suit with an orange scarf draped over his shoulders and his signature hat placed on the coffin.

The hat, which was carried by his daughter Winnie Odinga from India, where he passed away, was handed over to his mother, Ida Odinga, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) VIP Lounge before being placed on the casket at Kasarani.

President Ruto, under heavy security and the watch of military officials, stepped forward to view the body. He paused for a moment, bent slightly, and bowed his head in respect as military officers gave a salute in honour of the late former Prime Minister.

Afterwards, the stage was opened for Raila Odinga’s family. His widow, Ida Odinga, accompanied by their children, Raila Junior and Winnie Odinga, viewed the body in solemn silence, their faces visibly marked by grief.

A Luo traditional leader, dressed in full cultural regalia, stepped forward carrying a whisk, performed traditional rites to honour the departed leader, and then exited the stage.

Uhuru views Raila’s body

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, in his usual casual checked shirt, was next to pay his respects. Uhuru, who supported Raila in the 2022 presidential race after their 2018 handshake, appeared reflective as he approached the casket, bowed in respect, and then exited the area, followed closely by his aide dressed in a black suit.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also took turns viewing the body, followed by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri, who offered a final military salute before the stage was opened to other top government officials.