Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga has appealed to President William Ruto to promote the security officers who served the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during Raila’s burial ceremony in Bondo, Oburu praised the officers for their dedication and loyalty, saying they stood by the late leader throughout his final days.
“Your Excellency, the security men who have been taking care of Raila, I would like to plead with you — they have done a great job,” Oburu said.
“They have kept vigil and have been there for him all through.”
He urged the President to recognize their service with a promotion.
“Please give them promotion, just one grade,” he added.
Oburu’s remarks came as part of his tributes during the state funeral of his late brother Raila Odinga.
President Ruto is among dignitaries attending the funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo.
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s second Prime Minister and a veteran opposition leader, will be laid to rest at their family home in Kang'o ka'Jaramogi, in Bondo, Siaya County, after days of national mourning and emotional tributes from leaders and citizens alike.
He was accorded a state funeral by President William Ruto.
President William Ruto was accompanied by former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Nigerian president Olesegun Obasanjo, and other dignitaries.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Chief of Defense Forces General Charles Kahariri, and other top military officers are also present.
The former Prime Minister’s burial is set for Sunday, October 19, 2025.
The burial, according to his brother Oburu Oginga, will be held in private with only very few people allowed to participate.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen on Sunday said the number will be limited to about 500 persons.
Murkomen said the event will be strictly controlled to maintain order and ensure the family’s privacy during the solemn occasion.
“The process remains the same. All the events of the service will happen here,” he said.
“Citizens and supporters have been requested that only very few people will be able to access his home.”
The CS noted that the government will adhere to the set attendance limit, emphasizing the importance of respecting the family’s wishes and maintaining decorum.
“At most, maybe 500 people, but of course, you work with the times and challenges,” he said. “We will make sure we adhere to the numbers that have been set.”
