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A surge of sadness and shock has been reported among the clergy in Kisumu after they described the handling of the late Raila Amolo Odinga’s body during his final journey through Nairobi as dishonorable and disrespectful.

In a statement delivered by Bishop Charles Kokombo, representing the Kisumu Clergy Fellowship, religious leaders voiced significant frustration regarding the disorder, turmoil, and perceived absence of national dignity in the management of Raila’s remains.

“The event in Nairobi does not reflect the way a country grieves for its hero,” Bishop Kokombo remarked.

This is not a respectful farewell. The manner in which the body was prevented from reaching Lee Funeral Home and Parliament is not only disrespectful, but also profoundly embarrassing.

The religious leaders characterized the behavior of certain mourners in Nairobi as disrespectful to Raila’s reputation.

Kokombo added that rather than unity and discipline, the Capital City experienced disorder and disruption, which he felt diminished the gravity of the occasion.

The clergy in Kisumu have urged all Kenyans to respect the systems and procedures established by the national funeral committee, which is led by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, emphasizing that the committee should be permitted to manage the events with the honor appropriate for a leader of Raila’s standing.

“We should allow the national committee to carry out its duties. We must honor the plan established by the family and the government. Let us avoid turning this moment into a political issue. Raila was more than just a leader of the Luo community. He was a national icon, a pioneer of democracy, and he is worthy of a state funeral,” Kokomo said.

The clergy highlighted that the global community is observing and how Kenya’s farewell to one of its most significant political figures conveys a message regarding the country’s growth and cohesion.

As Kisumu gets ready for the peak of the funeral ceremonies on Saturday, the student’s message is evident: peace, respect, and dignity should lead the grieving process.

“Let us not damage this historic goodbye. Let us demonstrate to the world that Kenya understands how to respect itself,” Kokombo mentioned.

On Thursday, officials from Kisumu and the local administration set up tents at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo.

City Manager Abala Wanga and Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo went to the stadium to assess the readiness prior to the arrival of the body for public display on Saturday, after which it will be moved to his Opoda farm in Bondo for an overnight ceremony, concluding with a state funeral on Sunday.

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Tagged: Kenya, East Africa

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