Kindiki: Raila’s mourning will feature public screens for widespread participation

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said that the government will foster inclusivity in the process of mourning deceased ODM head Raila Odinga. In line with the family’s wish for a swift burial within 72 hours, Kindiki outlined plans that explicitly include creating designated public griefing spaces to facilitate widespread participation.

While addressing a media briefing on Wednesday, 15th October, 2025, the deputy president clarified that these public ‘mourning zones’ will be put in place to celebrate Odinga’s pan-ethnic appeal, while ensuring widespread participation across the country without transport problems.

“There will be free public transport shuttles to key sites, live streaming on national TV and online platforms, and temporary “mourning zones” in public parks and stadiums to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety.” Kindiki said

While flanked by Oburu Odinga and other leaders, the deputy president assured Kenyans that beyond Parliament, additional open-air venues in Nairobi, Kisumu, and other regions will host vigils and memorial gatherings.

These public mourning spaces, according to Kindiki’s statement, will be equipped with huge screens for live broadcasts of the requiem mass scheduled for Friday and burial Sunday. Local leaders and civil society will coordinate smaller, decentralized mourning events, transforming the mourning zones into hubs for tributes, speeches, and cultural performances celebrating Odinga’s life.

Ruto’s Announcement

Kindiki’s address comes hours after President Ruto announced the formation of a national funeral committee, co-chaired by Kindiki himself and Raila’s elder brother Oburu Odinga. Following President Ruto’s earlier instructions, the committee is tasked with arranging for the body’s return, facilitating widespread public viewings, and ensuring a proper farewell that befits Raila Odinga’s legacy.

Raila’s death has united Kenyans across political lines, with tributes from the African Union, international leaders, and local figures like ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, who described him as a ‘beacon of hope’.

The post Kindiki: Raila’s mourning will feature public screens for widespread participation appeared first on Times Digital Kenya.