Former Prime Minister, the late Raila Odinga is set to receive a state funeral with full military honours, President William Ruto has said.
Addressing the nation following Odinga’s demise, the Head of State also announced a seven-day period of national mourning in honour of Raila recognising his extraordinary contribution to the nation.
During this period, the National Flag will fly at half-mast across the Republic of Kenya and in all Kenyan missions abroad.
President Ruto also postponed all his public engagements to join the nation in mourning and reflection.
He, further, announced that the former Prime Minister will be accorded a State Funeral with full honours.
Odinga passed away Wednesday morning in India at the age of 80 while undergoing medical treatment in India.
His death comes after weeks of speculation about his health, although they were dismissed.
Revered by many as Kenya’s most influential political figure, Raila was born in 7th January, 1945 and dedicated his entire life to the service of our nation. He will be remembered as a tireless champion for social justice, a renowned Pan –Africanist and a statesman without equal, said President Ruto.
He eulogized the late Orange Democratic Movement Party leader as a voice that fearlessly spoke truth to power, championed reform and summoned us always to the higher ideals of the nationhood,” the Ruto said Wednesday afternoon.
“In his Passing, our nation, our continent and our world have lost a titan of conscience, a visionary of uncommon resolve and a defender of the defenceless whose legacy will illuminate Kenya’s democratic path for all time,” he added.
His death brings to an end a six-decade journey of political struggle, reform, and resilience that defined Kenya’s multiparty democracy.
