The Briefing Kenya bids farewell to Raila Odinga at state funeral attended by African leaders
Oct 17, 2025
Navina Couture, a Nairobi correspondent for Monocle, shares poignant insights from Raila Odinga's state funeral, highlighting his pivotal role in Kenya's democracy and the public's emotional response. She discusses Odinga's political legacy and potential successors in the upcoming 2027 elections. Fashion director Natalie Theodosi contributes with updates on major leadership changes in the industry, the anticipated sale of Armani after Giorgio Armani's passing, and a glimpse into Prada's innovative installation at Frieze London.
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Father Of Kenya's Multiparty Transition
- Raila Odinga is remembered as a central figure in Kenya's move to multi-party democracy and long-term political activism.
- His repeated presidential bids, regional mediation roles and charisma made him a formative voice in Kenyan and pan-African politics.
Popular But Not Always Majority-Building
- Odinga mobilized large segments of poorer voters with compelling rhetoric but repeatedly failed to secure a national majority.
- His surprise at losing the 2022 race despite Uhuru Kenyatta's endorsement underscored limits to his electoral reach.
Chaotic Public Mourning In Nairobi
- Navina described chaotic, emotional scenes when Odinga's body returned, with crowds running toward the airport and stadium processions.
- People used traditional signs like branches on vehicles to pay respects, reflecting deep communal mourning.