A moment of unexpected drama unfolded during the burial of ODM party leader Raila Odinga when the party’s Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, was briefly denied entry by security officers due to his casual dressing.
According to eyewitnesses, Sifuna arrived at the burial dressed in tight trousers and a casual shirt—an outfit that caught many by surprise, including members of the VIP security team stationed at the venue. His appearance reportedly led some officers to doubt his identity, with one even questioning him, “Is this how you dress during your party leader’s burial?”
The brief standoff occurred at the entrance to the VIP section, where top political leaders and dignitaries had gathered to pay their final respects to the long-serving ODM leader. Sources say Sifuna appeared momentarily confused and considered returning home to change into more formal attire. However, he ultimately decided to proceed without altering his outfit.
The incident quickly became a topic of discussion among attendees, with many expressing mixed reactions. Some defended Sifuna, saying clothing should not overshadow the purpose of the event — honoring a man who dedicated his life to public service. Others, however, felt the ODM Secretary General should have maintained a more formal appearance given the significance of the occasion and his close association with the late Raila Odinga.
Despite the brief setback, Sifuna was eventually allowed into the venue after security personnel confirmed his identity. He later joined other ODM officials and mourners in paying tribute to Raila Odinga, who was widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
The incident has since sparked conversations online, with Kenyans sharing memes and comments about the unexpected fashion faux pas that nearly kept one of Raila’s closest allies from attending his final send-off.
