Former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga received a historic 17-gun salute and the ceremonial last post from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a solemn military farewell at Kang’o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
The tribute, marked by full national and military honours, was carried out in accordance with a presidential directive issued by President William Ruto following Raila’s passing.
Raila, who served as Kenya’s second prime minister from 2008 to 2013 under a power-sharing agreement with then-President Mwai Kibaki, was recognized as a statesman whose leadership shaped Kenya’s political landscape for decades. The presidential order called for an official funeral reflecting his lifelong commitment to democracy and national service.
At the ceremony, Raila’s casket, draped in the national flag, was placed under strict military guard as hundreds of mourners gathered at the burial site of his father, Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
At precisely 16:53, the KDF artillery unit fired 17 rounds into the air. Each echo resonated across the fields of Bondo, symbolizing the nation’s respect for Raila’s dedication to freedom, justice, and democracy.
Following the gun salute, a lone military bugler played the last post, the traditional signal marking the end of a soldier’s duty. Mourners stood in silence, many with tears in their eyes, paying tribute to a man whose influence on Kenyan politics was profound, despite never serving as president.
Traditionally, a sitting president receives a 21-gun salute, while a former president is honoured with 19 rounds. Raila’s 17-gun salute reflected his unique status as a national leader and freedom fighter who put the nation above personal ambition.
President Ruto, who led the farewell proceedings, described Raila as “a patriot whose courage and vision transformed our republic.”
At 16:45, KDF officers marched the casket slowly to the graveside. The flag was removed as the body was laid atop the burial site.
Clergy members whispered prayers, dedicating Raila’s soul to God, before the casket was gently lowered at 16:52, with family, leaders, and clergy observing in solemn silence.
During the burial, a military hymn played as the KDF rendered a full salute. On the casket rested Raila’s flying whisk and a white Panama hat, symbols of his identity and legacy. Raila’s son walked slowly to the grave holding his own child, bowing in final respect.
The congregation observed a minute of silence to reflect on his life and service, followed by the playing of the Reveille and a concluding prayer by the clergy.
At exactly 17:00, the first shovels of soil were cast into the grave by the clergy, symbolizing the return of Raila Odinga’s body to the earth, concluding a farewell befitting one of Kenya’s most influential leaders.
