Kenya has plunged into mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga, whose body arrived in Nairobi on Thursday morning aboard a Kenya Airways flight from India.
The remains of the veteran statesman — fondly regarded as the father of devolution — landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:30 a.m. aboard flight KQ203, which was renamed RAO01 upon entering Kenyan airspace in his honour.
The flight quickly became the most tracked globally, as millions followed the final journey of one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
Ruto and Uhuru Lead the Nation in Receiving Raila’s Body
President William Ruto led the country’s top leadership in receiving the body at JKIA, accompanied by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and several Cabinet Secretaries. Ruto arrived at the airport shortly after 9:08 a.m., just minutes after his deputy, who had been among the first senior officials to oversee final preparations.
The Head of State paid tribute to Raila, saying the government would ensure he is accorded a dignified farewell befitting his contribution to Kenya’s democracy.
“We gather not only to mourn but to celebrate a life that shaped our nation’s democratic journey,” President Ruto said.
Tight Security at Lee Funeral Home
Security was heightened along Valley Road and Argwings Kodhek Road as armed police and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers mounted strategic positions around the Lee Funeral Home, where Raila’s body was transported after arrival.
Military vehicles and barricades were visible across major access points, with only accredited officials, family members, and senior government representatives allowed into the compound.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui and Secretary to the Cabinet Mercy Wanjau oversaw final preparations ahead of the arrival.
“The final touches are underway. Once the body arrives, it will be prepared before being transported to Parliament to lie in state,” Kinyanjui told journalists.
Crowds Defy Security at JKIA
Thousands of mourners thronged JKIA to witness the arrival of Raila’s body, with many waving flags and carrying portraits of the late leader.
At one point, the emotional crowd breached airport security, making their way to the runway as the coffin was being lowered from the aircraft into the waiting hearse.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, addressing the crowd, announced that the procession would take Mombasa Road instead of the Nairobi Expressway, allowing Kenyans to line the streets and pay their final respects.
“We are going to use Mombasa Road so that you can escort the body,” she said.
Traffic jams stretched for kilometres as the hearse made its way to the Lee Funeral Home, escorted by a motorcade of dignitaries, military vehicles, and thousands of supporters.
ODM Names Oburu Oginga as Acting Party Leader
In a major development within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) met early Thursday and unanimously appointed Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga — Raila’s elder brother — as the Acting Party Leader.
The NEC said the move was necessary to ensure continuity and stability as the party navigates its transition following Raila’s passing.
“The NEC has unanimously endorsed the designation of Dr. Oburu Oginga as Acting Party Leader. This appointment takes effect immediately,” read the official ODM statement.
The decision marks the first internal leadership change since Raila’s death, closing a chapter in a political journey that spanned over four decades and reshaped Kenya’s opposition politics.
State Funeral Programme Announced
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who co-chairs the National Funeral Committee, confirmed that Raila Odinga will be accorded a State Funeral with full honours and will be buried on Sunday, October 19, in accordance with his family’s wishes.
According to Kindiki, Raila had expressed a personal wish to be buried within 72 hours of his death.
“It was Raila’s wish to be laid to rest within the shortest time possible — 72 hours. The State will honour this,” Kindiki stated.
The detailed programme released by the committee is as follows:
Wednesday
- 6:30 p.m. – A Kenyan delegation dispatched to India to facilitate repatriation of Raila’s body.
- 8:30 a.m. (Thursday) – Body arrives at JKIA, received by President Ruto and family.
Thursday
- 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Body lies in state at Parliament Buildings for public viewing.
- 5:00 p.m. – Returned to Lee Funeral Home.
Friday
- 8:00 a.m. – State funeral service at Nyayo Stadium, attended by local and international dignitaries.
- Later – Body moved to Raila’s Karen home for overnight stay.
Saturday
- 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Public viewing in Kisumu’s Moi Stadium before proceeding to Bondo for an overnight vigil.
Sunday
- Burial at his Bondo home, conducted under the rites of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK).
Nation in Mourning
Flags are flying at half-mast across the country as Kenyans come to terms with the loss of a man whose name was synonymous with struggle, resilience, and reform.
From Kibera to Kisumu, crowds have lit candles, held prayer vigils, and sung liberation songs in his memory. For many, Raila Odinga was more than a politician — he was a symbol of defiance, hope, and the unyielding spirit of democracy.
As Kenya prepares to bid him farewell, the nation stands united in grief — honouring the man who, for over 40 years, fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and a better Kenya.
