In a silent but powerful gesture of respect, the Deputy President’s vehicle was seen without its official flag on Thursday morning, symbolizing a nation united in grief.
The removal came just hours after President William Ruto declared seven days of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Th act, carried out by the deputy president’s aide, marked the start of a solemn week across the country. Government vehicles that usually bear flags as emblems of authority will now go without them, reflecting humility in the face of loss and the suspension of normal state pomp.
President Ruto, i an emotional address from State House on Wednesday evening, announced that Raila Odinga would be laid to rest with full military honours and all state protocols befitting a national leader. He directed that the Kenyan flag be flown at half-mast nationwide and in all foreign missions.
“This is not just a political loss. It is the passing of a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a father to our democracy,” said President Ruto. “We stand together, united in grief.”
The Head of State also cancelled his planned four-day development tour of the Ukambani region to lead the nation in mourning. Government departments were instructed to scale down their operations and dedicate time to reflection during the mourning period.
Delegation to India
To oversee the safe return of the late leader’s remains, President Ruto named a high-level delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. The team includes Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Hassan Joho, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, and members of the Odinga family — Jaoko Oburu Odinga, Kevin Opiyo Odinga, and Mama Ida Odinga — who will travel to India.
The Indian government has pledged to facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s body, working closely with the Kenyan delegation to ensure proper coordination and honour.
The Final Journey
Deputy President Kithure Mindiki will co-chair the national funeral committee alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga. The committee will be responsible for planning a state funeral expected to attract regional and international dignitaries.
Raila Odinga passed away in India, where he had travelled for medical treatment. According to close family members, he suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk, while in the company of his daughter and sister.
His death has plunged the nation into deep mourning. Across cities and villages, Kenyans continue to gather in prayer, reflection, and tribute — remembering a man whose political journey, struggles, and resilience defined an era.
As flags fly low and political divisions fade into silence, the country finds unity in grief. The absence of a flag on a deputy president’s car has become more than a protocol — it is a quiet reminder that true honour lies not in titles, but in service to the nation.
