Raila Odinga’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga, has appealed to Kenyans to remain peaceful as preparations continue for the burial of the late former Prime Minister in Bondo, Siaya County.
Speaking to mourners at Raila’s Opoda Farm home on Saturday, October 17, Ida urged supporters to maintain calm and respect during the ceremony.
She noted that Raila’s burial had drawn high-profile guests, making it important for everyone to behave with dignity.
“I want to appeal to our people, we must mourn Raila in peace. It is a solemn occasion, not a moment for confusion,” she said.
Ida explained that she had attended international funerals such as those of President John Magufuli and Nelson and Winnie Mandela, adding that such events are always conducted in peace and order.
“Things work better when we do them solemnly. It is only when we are calm that we can hear and understand each other,” she added.
Her message came as Raila’s body was expected to be airlifted to his home in Bondo for an overnight stay before the final burial on Sunday.
Thousands of mourners had already gathered outside the compound, eager to witness the arrival of his body.
Earlier in the day, chaos was witnessed in Kisumu at the Mamboleo Showgrounds where the public viewing of Raila’s body turned rowdy.
Police and military officers were forced to intervene as the crowd broke through barriers. Several mourners reportedly collapsed due to exhaustion and emotional distress but were quickly attended to by the Kenya Red Cross and Kisumu County emergency teams.
Tags
News