The former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, completed his final journey home on Saturday morning. His mortal remains arrived in Kisumu, the heartland of his political support, aboard a military aircraft.
This emotional return marks the continuation of the national events honouring his extensive legacy.
A Solemn Arrival
The military aircraft, which departed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 06:30, landed at Kisumu International Airport at approximately 7:20 am. The flight was renamed ENIGMA01 in honour of the late former Prime Minister.
Upon touching down on the runway, the aircraft was accorded a symbolic military water salute. This historic moment represented Mr Odinga’s final flight to the lakeside city.
Security and Public Viewing
Security was significantly intensified at the airport as military personnel oversaw the transfer of the casket. The Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service are currently on high alert to ensure safety and maintain order throughout the day.
The casket is being transferred from the airport to the Mamboleo Stadium. This stadium has been officially designated as the venue for the public viewing.
Kisumu has been described as turning into a “sea of emotion” as locals honour their departed leader. Many supporters spent the previous night dancing, while others lit hundreds of candles.
Before members of the public are allowed to view the body, a short interfaith prayer service will take place.
Religious leaders from various denominations are expected to lead the prayers, allowing mourners to pay their respects peacefully.
Earlier, the Kisumu Governor, Anyang’ Nyong’o, had issued a strong call for calm, urging residents to demonstrate restraint and peace.
“People in this region love peace. Let that be proven on Saturday, so that we don’t let down our party leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, his family, the Kenyan nation, and the international community,”.
The Final Steps
This programme in Kisumu is part of a broader national tribute to Mr Odinga’s decades-long struggle for democracy, justice and unity in Kenya.
The body will be viewed by mourners throughout the day at Mamboleo. Later on Saturday, the remains will be moved from Kisumu to his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, for an overnight stay.
A state burial service is scheduled for Sunday in Bondo. This service will be attended by national leaders, dignitaries, and family members. Mr Odinga will be laid to rest in accordance with his wishes to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.
Background Context
Raila Odinga, a key figure in Kenya’s political history, passed away in India on Wednesday, after travelling for treatment. He had expected to return home alive the following day.
His body was airlifted back to Kenya on Thursday and received at JKIA by President William Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga.
On Friday, the government held a State Funeral service for him at the Nyayo National Stadium. The country is currently observing a seven-day mourning period.
Mr Odinga’s send-off has drawn tributes from across the globe. Barack Obama hailed him as a champion of democracy, stating that “Through his life, Raila Odinga set an example not just for Kenyans, but across Africa and around the world. I know he will be missed,”. His brother, Oburu Oginga, recalled that Raila was his “brother, confidant and irreplaceable friend”
by moses sagwe
