Late ODM leader Raila Odinga
City lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has questioned the circumstances surrounding the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, focusing on reports that he wished to be buried within 72 hours of his death and the alleged existence of a will linked to that directive.
Raila Odinga died in October 2025 in India while undergoing medical treatment.
He was later buried in Bondo in a state funeral marked by national mourning, military honours, and the attendance of senior government officials.
However, the reported burial instructions have continued to attract public debate, with Njiru raising concerns over how the alleged will was handled and communicated.
In his remarks, Njiru questioned the legality and transparency of the document said to contain Raila’s burial wishes.
“Let’s face it. This matter of Raila’s will to be buried in 72 hours is suspect,” he said, pointing to what he described as unanswered legal and procedural issues.
He asked who the executor of the will was, when it was written, and whether it was properly witnessed as required under Kenyan law. Njiru also questioned whether the document met the standards of a valid testament.
He further raised concerns about the scope of the alleged will, questioning whether it only addressed burial arrangements.
“Was the will one sided, that is to say, the alleged will only provided on how and when Raila was to be buried?” he posed.
Njiru also questioned whether the will included instructions on the distribution of Raila Odinga’s estate, noting that such provisions are normally central in succession documents.
“Didn’t the will provide on how Raila’s estate was to be distributed?” he asked.
Another key issue he raised was how the information about the will reached President William Ruto, allegedly before members of Raila’s family were formally informed.
“How did Ruto get to know that Raila had left a will?” Njiru asked, suggesting that the sequence of disclosure needed clarification.
He also questioned which advocate was involved in drafting the document and when its contents were shared with state officials.
Njiru further sought clarity on whether the timing of the disclosure was consistent with standard legal practice in handling wills and succession matters.
The lawyer’s comments come amid continued public discussion over Raila Odinga’s reported preference for a swift burial within 72 hours.
While funeral arrangements were conducted under state protocol, including repatriation from India and national ceremonies, the process extended beyond the 72-hour window.