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NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 19 – Thousands of mourners are gathered at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) grounds in Bondo, where the funeral service of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is currently underway. Top government officials, lawmakers, and clergy, and foreign dignitaries have already arrived at the venue. Earlier, Odinga’s body was escorted by the Kenya Defence Forces under tight security, from his Opoda farm as thousands of mourners lined the route, waving and weeping in a final farewell to the veteran leader. Raila’s family, led by his widow Ida Odinga and their children, accompanied the convoy to the venue, where the nation will pay its last respects to the man revered as a champion of democracy and justice. President William Ruto, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, was scheduled to arrive at 9 a.m. for the main funeral ceremony. The Head of State, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, is expected to lead the nation in paying tribute to the late opposition leader. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomeni will oversee the event, with Kindiki inviting the President to deliver his tribute to the late opposition leader. The interment service will be led by Rt. Prof. David Kodia, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Bondo. After the service at JOOUST, the state funeral procession will escort the body of the late Odinga to his rural home at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo for a private interment ceremony. The final rites will include military and state honours, floral tributes, musical performances, and a session of votes of thanks. The ceremony marks the culmination of three days of national mourning for one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. Security remains tight in Bondo as thousands of mourners, dignitaries, and international guests gather to bid farewell to the late former Prime Minister.
