The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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A somber atmosphere enveloped Parliament Buildings on Friday morning as President William Ruto arrived to pay his last respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose body lies in state.
The President, who arrived at around 8:15 a.m. accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, appeared visibly moved as he approached the casket. Dressed in dark attire, the Head of State walked slowly toward the coffin, bowed his head in silence, and later signed the condolence book, taking several minutes to pen a heartfelt tribute.
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Shortly after, Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, and his children, Raila Odinga Jr. and Winnie Odinga, gathered beside the casket. Raila Jr. performed a brief traditional ritual, waving a fly whisk above his father’s body as the family stood in silent reflection.
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who also paid their final respects.
Emotions ran high as mourners broke into chants of “Pamoja na wewe! Pamoja na wewe!” while others wept openly.
“It’s still hard to believe Baba is gone,” one mourner said tearfully. “He represented the dreams of so many Kenyans.”
President Ruto was received by Speakers Wetang’ula and Kingi before joining Chief Justice Martha Koome and several MPs in the viewing chamber.
The solemn ceremony precedes the State Funeral set for Saturday at Nyayo National Stadium from 9 a.m., expected to draw world leaders and dignitaries from across the globe.
Security around Parliament was tight, with officers from the Kenya Defence Forces and the National Police Service maintaining order as Raila’s flag-draped casket was received by senior officials, clergy, and family members for the lying-in-state ceremony.
Authorities have mobilized about 10,000 officers from various units, including the GSU and the military, to secure Nyayo Stadium ahead of the State Funeral. Nairobi traffic commander Joseph Chirchir announced road closures around the stadium, advising motorists to use alternative routes via Bunyala Road to the city centre.
Only mourners arriving by 8 a.m. will be allowed entry into the stadium for the funeral service.
