Mama Ida Odinga urges Kenyans to maintain peace during Raila's burial

Speaking during a press briefing in Bondo, Siaya, Mama Ida welcomed the condolence messages that she has received locally and internationally. 

She appealed to Kenyans to avoid any form of violence during the entire funeral ceremony, citing that the public should emulate Raila's clarion call for peace. 

"Since the time has come, we have to deal with it the way it is. Concerning the situation, I know Raila was loved by his people, his family, his community, Kenyans, Africa and many parts of the world," she noted. 

"I've received condolence messages from many parts of the world. I want to appeal to our people that we must mourn Raila in peace. It's not an occasion of confusion. Things work better if we do it in a solemn manner."

"I've been to many international funerals such as former South African president Nelson and his wife Winnie Mandela, former President Magufuli in Tanzania. It is only through the still voice that we can understand one another."

Raila's body was flown from Nairobi to Kisumu for public viewing at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium. Thereafter, it will be flown to Bondo for an overnight stay at Opoda. 

He will be buried on Sunday at a private ceremony in Bondo, Siaya, after a funeral service at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST).