Uhuru Kenyatta, Raila Odinga Lay Flowers At SKM Command Centre In Honour Of Protesters Killed During Demos

• Former president Uhuru Kenyatta made a surprise appearance for Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party's prayer event in Karen
• Uhuru joined ODM leader Raila Odinga and other Azimio leaders in lighting candles and laying flowers
• The event was hosted at the SKM command centre, Wiper party's headquarters, in honour of Kenyans killed during the anti-government protests

Nairobi - Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party have held a requiem service in honour of protesters killed during the anti-government protests.

Former president Uhuru Kenyatta was among the leaders who attended the interdenominational prayer service at the SKM command centre.

The retired president joined ODM leader Raila Odinga and his Wiper party counterpart Kalonzo Musyoka in laying flowers in honour of the victims.

Uhuru and Raila could be seen mumbling a prayer alongside former Nyandarua MP Jeremiah Kioni before they left to continue with the much-publicised service.

Uhuru drives himself to Karen

Uhuru surprised leaders at the SKM command centre when he arrived in his now-trademark Mercedes G-Classic.

The former head of state, who has previously expressed he enjoys driving, was behind the wheel despite his aides accompanying him.

He was ushered to the event by Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, among other leaders from the opposition outfit.

The opposition said the mass would be used to pray for justice, healing and a conducive future for the country.

"We wish to invite all Kenyans to an Interdenominational Requiem Mass honoring the slain and injured victims of police brutality tomorrow, July 28, at De Paul Grounds in Karen, beginning 9:00 am. Together, we pray for justice, healing, and a safer, conducive future for our nation. Let us stand as one to remember and honour the fallen souls," Azimio said in the statement.

The opposition coalition said similar functions would be held at selected locations countrywide.

"Similar prayers will take place in chosen locations in counties across the country on the same day. We, therefore, appeal to Kenyans to keep the peace during these prayers," they said.

Implications of Uhuru being active in politics

Uhuru's participation in politics after his presidential tenure has been the subject of discussion in the recent past.

The retired president risked losing his hefty retirement perks if he continues being Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party Council chairman.

Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act 2003 states that a retired president shall not hold office in any political party for more than six months after he ceases to be head of state.

Uhuru is entitled to KSh 34.7 million lump sum pension for the two terms served, an annual gratuity of over KSh 72 million.