Fresh details have emerged about the emotional body viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Parliament Buildings on Friday, October 17.
A reliable source from the funeral coordination team disclosed that the event drew a large number of Azimio la Umoja leaders and supporters who came to honor the veteran politician.
Among the top figures who attended were Martha Karua, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
They arrived quietly, blending in with the long queues of mourners who had gathered to pay tribute to a man widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
Others present included Narc Kenya officials, ODM Members of Parliament, and several county governors allied with the Azimio coalition. Their attendance, the insider noted, demonstrated Raila’s far-reaching influence and the unity he inspired across political lines.
The atmosphere inside Parliament was heavy with grief. Many leaders were seen wiping tears as they passed the flag-covered casket, while others comforted Raila’s family in silence.
However, questions were raised when several prominent politicians, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, failed to attend the event.
His absence triggered widespread speculation online, with many wondering whether it was due to political differences or personal reasons. Some Azimio members who had previously been close to Raila were also missing, leaving mourners curious.
Tight security surrounded the venue, and proceedings were conducted under strict protocol. Religious leaders led short prayers before the viewing ended.
The source further revealed that opposition leaders were not given time to speak during the state funeral because the program was tightly controlled by the national organizing committee, which wanted to keep the event solemn and non-political.
The full list of attendees is expected to be made public ahead of Raila’s state burial in Bondo, scheduled for Sunday.
By Nairobi