Viewing of Raila’s Body Moved to Kasarani Stadium
The public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body has been relocated from the Parliament Buildings to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, following an overwhelming turnout of mourners in Nairobi.
Organizers also confirmed that Raila’s procession from Lee Funeral Home to Parliament has been cancelled. The decision was made after thousands of Kenyans flooded Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to escort the late leader’s body, causing delays and security concerns.
Change in Venue Due to Large Crowds
Many mourners had already queued outside Parliament Buildings early Thursday morning before being advised to proceed to Kasarani Stadium instead.
A statement from Raila’s funeral committee indicated that the move was made to accommodate the unprecedented number of mourners who turned up to view Raila Odinga’s body.
“Due to the surge in the number of mourners, the viewing of the body of H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from the Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani,” the statement read.
Traffic and Security Advisory
Authorities warned that heavy traffic is expected along Thika Road as the motorcade proceeds to Kasarani. The initial schedule had planned for public viewing to begin at 12 noon, but the arrival of Raila’s body at JKIA was delayed by more than two hours, forcing further adjustments.
The change also comes after security breaches at the airport earlier in the morning, when thousands of mourners stormed the VIP section, preventing President William Ruto from formally receiving the body.
Updated Funeral Arrangements
The public viewing in Kisumu, initially set for Moi Stadium, will now take place at Mamboleo Showground on Saturday, October 18. Organizers indicated that more adjustments may follow as the National Funeral Committee finalizes the arrangements.
Raila Odinga’s State Funeral will be held on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo National Stadium — a day officially declared a public holiday. He will then be airlifted to Kisumu on Saturday before his burial in Bondo on Sunday, October 19.
