Tempers flared at Opoda Farm on Friday afternoon after Alego Usonga MP Samuel Onunga Atandi was denied access to the late Raila Odinga’s rural home amid heightened burial preparations.
Atandi, known for his vocal support of the Odinga family, reportedly arrived at the Siaya homestead with a full entourage — but police officers manning the gate stood firm. Eyewitnesses say the MP’s convoy was stopped at the entrance and politely turned away as part of new restrictions limiting access to only close family members and select state officials.
“It was not about Atandi himself,” one source disclosed. “The problem was the size of his entourage. Security feared everyone would demand entry.”
Tight Security as Opoda Becomes a National Shrine
A heavy police and military presence now rings Opoda Farm, which has effectively turned into the country’s emotional epicenter following Raila’s death. Only essential personnel are allowed in as teams finalize preparations for what is expected to be one of Kenya’s most solemn state funerals.
Details indicate that Atandi in the company of political henchmen including comedian Austine Makamu wa Makamu landed in a helicopter in the nearby fields and expected his showy arrival would create an impact on the security personnel who stood their ground. The firm denial unsettled the MP who rung up area MP Gideon Ochanda and the two legislators were granted entry to go sign the visitors book and no more.
To save face the MP would post on his X account that he had “been at Opoda farm making security arrangements” when it was the security team already in place which had denied him entry.
Mourners continue to stream into Bondo, many carrying flowers, candles, and portraits of the man they revered as “Baba” — a symbol of Kenya’s long fight for democracy.
From humble villagers to visiting dignitaries, all share one sentiment: Raila Odinga’s absence has left a void that no one can fill.
Private Farewell, Public Tears
Despite the massive national grief, the burial itself will be strictly private. According to Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, the former Prime Minister will be laid to rest on Sunday at Kang’o ka Jaramogi, beside his late father and mother, in line with his personal wishes.
Oburu explained that the farewell will begin with a brief ceremony at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), followed by the private burial at the family cemetery.
“It was Raila’s express wish to rest beside his parents in a quiet and dignified farewell,” Oburu said.
Thousands Expected at Public Viewing
To accommodate the growing crowds, the National State Funeral Committee has shifted the official public viewing venue from Moi Stadium in Kisumu to Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo.
The move aims to ensure order and safety as thousands flock to pay their last respects to the man whose political life spanned over five decades and shaped Kenya’s modern history.
A Nation Holds Its Breath
As security tightens and emotions run high, Opoda Farm stands as both fortress and shrine — guarded by uniformed officers, yet overflowing with unspoken grief.
The incident involving MP Atandi underscores just how closely the Odinga family is guarding Raila’s final moments on earth.
And as Sunday approaches, one truth looms large: Kenya is preparing to bury not just a leader, but a legend.
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