KENYA –
Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga was buried Sunday at his rural home as the country, which has previously been marred by post-election violence and anti-government protests, faces political uncertainty.
Kenyan leaders present at the burial, including President William Ruto, who signed a political pact with Odinga early this year, talked about the need for Odinga’s ODM party to remain united, and either form or join the next government after the 2027 election.
Democracy reformer Odinga was accorded full military honours that included a 17-gun salute by the army. He was buried next to his father, Jaramogi, who fought for Kenya’s independence and was the country’s first vice president.
Thousands of Kenyans and dignitaries from across Africa attended the final interment of a man described as a “selfless pan-Africanist.”
The wailing mourners breached a security cordon to gain access to the burial site, which was initially only for family members and leaders.
Odinga, 80, died in India on Wednesday where he was receiving medical treatment. His body was received by thousands of mourners in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, on Thursday.
Four public viewing events have been held in the past few days, attracting thousands of mourners and leaving five people dead and hundreds injured during stampedes.
