Bishop David Kodia Receives Standing Ovation After Fiery Sermon at Raila Odinga’s State Funeral

Thousands of mourners filled Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, for the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, but it was Bishop Prof. David Kodia’s powerful sermon that electrified the crowd. The Anglican Bishop of Bondo Diocese delivered a fearless message that blended faith, truth, and social justice, earning him a standing ovation and loud cheers from the audience.

What Message Did Bishop Kodia Deliver to Leaders?

In his sermon, Bishop Kodia condemned leaders who misuse power for personal gain, saying they betray Raila Odinga’s legacy of integrity and sacrifice. “When we’re proclaiming the Word, we should not be fearful. Word proclaimed must have the power to transform, to make us renewed in our strength in the liberation of our country from those who are looting everything from us, from the country level to everywhere,” he declared, as the crowd erupted in applause.

The bishop didn’t hold back, warning corrupt leaders that they would face condemnation for their actions. “If there’s anyone here, at whatever level, be a governor, MCA, who has looted this country, you know you stand the chance to be condemned,” he said firmly.

He also criticized Kenya’s growing “culture of handouts,” saying it undermines public service and dignity. “Baba is one such politician who never used the power of money to intimidate people. Today, we have bad manners among our politicians. They have taught our people the culture of handouts that whatever you want, you must part with money,” Bishop Kodia lamented.

He praised Raila for his humility and moral leadership. “Baba never used the power of his wallet as a convincing tool to others, but he used the power of persuasion. He used the power of the word,” he said. “Let’s allow ourselves to be used by God so that the power He gave us is the power that is correcting, reconciling, and rebuking what is evil.”

How Did Mourners React to the Bishop’s Message?

The passionate sermon drew a roaring ovation from the crowd, many of whom waved Kenyan flags in honor of Raila’s memory. The bishop’s closing challenge,  “How many can fit in the shoes of Raila Odinga today? How many?”, left the stadium in reflective silence before it broke into applause.

The service, attended by thousands of mourners, included dignitaries such as Ethiopian President Taye Selassie and former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, alongside Kenyan leaders from across the political divide. Raila’s family remembered him as a fearless champion of democracy and equality.

Following the service, the public was invited to view Raila’s body before it was taken to his Karen home for an overnight vigil. The procession will move to Kisumu on Saturday for public viewing at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo, ahead of his burial on Sunday at his Bondo home.

By Yockshard Enyendi