Raila to Rest on Orange Bed
The body of the late Raila Odinga will be laid on an orange-draped bed during public viewing, a symbolic gesture honoring the movement he led for decades.
According to officials familiar with the plans, the color choice carries deep significance.
Orange is associated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, which he (Raila) founded and led until his death.
The color symbolism also follows a tradition established with previous state funerals.
The late President Daniel Moi lay on a blue-draped bed, a reflection of his signature blue standard.
Former President Mwai Kibaki, on the other hand, was laid on a white-draped bed, symbolizing his white standard.
For Raila, organizers say the orange theme captures the spirit of resilience, courage, and unity that defined his life and political career.
“The choice of colors at state funerals serves as both a tribute and a reflection of the leaders’ personal and political philosophies… for Raila, orange could not have been more fitting,” said an official.
The flag that represents the president stands apart from the national flag and is only displayed when the president is present or engaged in official duties.
The plane carrying Raila’s body landed at JKIA at 9:30 a.m.
It was met by President William Ruto, family members, and various elected officials.
Preparations for the public viewing are underway, with tight security in place as thousands of mourners are expected to gather at the Kasarani Stadium to pay their final respects.
Originally, the public was supposed to view the body at the Parliament Buildings, but a last-minute decision changed that plan.
Military personnel who had been assigned to Parliament to receive the body were later seen packing up and leaving the area.
At the Lee Funeral Home, morticians and military officials who were set to receive and prepare the body were directed to head to Kasarani, where the process will now take place.
“The crowd was simply overwhelming. The mortician and his team have left in the military van,” a senior official at Lee Funeral Home shared with reporters.
After the procession departed from the airport, Ruto stayed at the State Pavilion with family members and other dignitaries for discussions.
Raila to Rest on Orange Bed
