The body of former Prime Minister and veteran opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga arrived in Nairobi on Thursday morning, marking the start of a national mourning period.
The Kenya Airways flight carrying Odinga’s remains landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:40am from India, where he had been undergoing medical treatment. In a symbolic tribute, the aircraft was designated “RAO001” for the journey.
Upon arrival, the casket—draped in the Kenyan flag—was received with full military honors in a solemn ceremony attended by President William Ruto, government dignitaries, and members of the Odinga family.
Following prayers and brief tributes, the coffin was transferred to a waiting hearse and escorted to Lee Funeral Home by a military convoy. Crowds of mourners lined the route, waving flags, singing, and paying their final respects.
Initially, the body was scheduled to lie in state at Parliament Buildings for public viewing between 12 noon and 5pm.
However, due to overwhelming public turnout, the government redirected the viewing to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
A State Funeral Service is set for Friday at Nyayo National Stadium, after which the procession will move to Kisumu on Saturday for public viewing.
The burial will take place on Sunday at the family’s home in Bondo, Siaya County.
Security was visibly increased across major roads including Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway to facilitate the motorcade’s passage. In Nairobi’s central business district, emotional scenes unfolded as supporters followed the procession on foot, singing liberation songs and chanting “Baba wa Taifa, Rest in Power.”
The mood across the capital was one of deep sorrow and reverence, as Kenyans from all walks of life reflected on the enduring legacy of a man many consider a cornerstone of the country’s democratic evolution.
