Frontier Correspondent
Former president’s private visit underscores enduring bond with the late opposition leader.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday made a solemn visit to the grave of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at the Odinga family home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo — a day after the iconic statesman was laid to rest.
Arriving quietly and without fanfare, the former Head of State joined members of the Odinga family in what became a deeply personal and reflective moment.
Witnesses said Uhuru stood silently beside the freshly sealed grave for several minutes, bowing his head in prayer before extending his hand towards it in a final act of respect. He later clasped his hands together and prayed again — a gesture that moved those present.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta stands in solemn reflection at the grave of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga at the Odinga family home in Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, Siaya County.
Uhuru’s visit carried deep symbolic weight, coming just hours after the country bade farewell to the man many hailed as the father of Kenya’s modern democracy.
The two leaders’ relationship had spanned decades — marked by early rivalry, reconciliation, and ultimately partnership through the historic 2018 Handshake, which defused political tensions and helped stabilise Kenya following the divisive 2017 elections.
During his presidency, Uhuru often described Raila as “a brother in service” and credited their cooperation with steering Kenya toward unity and development.
Family members present during the visit described the moment as private and emotional, defined more by silence than words, as the former president joined them in honouring Raila’s legacy of courage, sacrifice, and national service.
Uhuru’s visit followed an emotional burial ceremony on Sunday that saw hundreds of mourners in Siaya break through tight security to access the burial site. The crowd — carrying twigs and chanting Raila’s name — pushed past security officers moments after the casket was lowered, determined to pay their last respects.
Despite efforts by police and military personnel to contain the situation, mourners surrounded the graveside, singing traditional Luo dirges and liberation songs in honour of the man whose political journey defined generations.
Raila’s burial, attended by President William Ruto, regional leaders, and thousands of citizens, marked the end of an era — but his ideals continue to inspire reflection and unity across Kenya and beyond.
As Uhuru Kenyatta’s quiet tribute in Bondo showed, Raila Odinga’s legacy transcended politics — touching even those who once stood across the aisle from him.