President William Ruto has declared a seven-day national mourning period following the demise of statesman Raila Odinga. During the one week period, the Kenyan flag will be flown at half-mast in honour of the former Prime Minister who died of a heart attack on Wednesday morning in India.
In a press briefing at State House, Nairobi, Ruto announced that the late Raila will be accorded a state funeral with all attendant honours. He mourned Raila as “one of Africa’s greatest leaders, a giant of democracy, a fearless fighter, and a tireless warrior of good governance,” describing his death as a great loss.
He stated that the former ODM party leader’s name will forever be etched in the story of the republic of Kenya referring to him as a story of struggle, sacrifice, courage, rule of law, hope, and pursuit for excellence.
Ruto described Odinga as a patriot who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice in Kenya, and whose ideals transcended politics.
“As a mark of respect, I have postponed all my public engagements for the coming days to join the nation in this period of mourning and deep reflection,” he said.
The Head of State then directed that all top Kenyan government officials and diplomats abroad shall not fly the national flag on their official cars from Wednesday until the day of Odinga’s interment, further announcing collaboration with Indian government to work on repatriation of Odinga’s remains.
A committee led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, tasked to organise the former PM’s burial has also been ordered to closely work with Odinga’s elder brother, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga to facilitate the exercise to success.
“A delegation comprising government officials and family members, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, is leaving immediately for India to facilitate proper organisation in the repatriation,” Ruto added.
Mr Odinga, 80, reportedly passed away in the Indian city of Kochi, where he had been under treatment for an undisclosed illness.
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