Kenya’s longtime opposition leader, Raila Odinga, has been laid to rest in a state funeral in western Kenya after days of mourning attended by thousands.
Odinga, who died at age 80 in India, was celebrated for his fight for democracy during Daniel arap Moi’s autocratic rule, enduring jail and exile. His funeral in Bondo saw military salutes and a respectful farewell, with mourners emphasizing his legacy of fighting for rights.
Despite prior fears of unrest, the funeral proceeded peacefully. Odinga served as prime minister from 2008 to 2013 and is recognized for playing a key role in Kenya’s transition to multi-party democracy, although he never became president.
The funeral, held at a university named after his father, featured speeches from notable leaders and was notable as he was the first non-president to receive a state funeral in Kenya. He is remembered as a hero and a significant political figure whose influence endures.
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