The body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived in Kisumu on Saturday morning to a solemn yet emotionally charged reception, marking the final leg of his journey home to Bondo.
The late opposition leader’s remains were transported aboard a Kenya Air Force military helicopter, which touched down at Kisumu International Airport at around 8:30 a.m. The aircraft was accorded a ceremonial water salute, a time-honored aviation tribute reserved for national heroes and dignitaries. Fire engines lined the runway, spraying twin arcs of water over the chopper as it landed — a powerful symbol of honor and farewell.
The water salute mirrored the one performed two days earlier at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) when the plane carrying Raila’s body from India arrived in Nairobi, signaling the beginning of Kenya’s official farewell to one of its most iconic political figures.
A Nation in Mourning
From the moment the helicopter touched down, the air around Kisumu was thick with emotion. Crowds gathered at vantage points around the airport, waving flags, holding portraits of “Baba,” and chanting liberation songs synonymous with Raila’s decades-long struggle for democracy and social justice.
Among those present to receive the body were top ODM leaders, members of the national funeral organizing committee, and local officials who had arrived aboard earlier flights. The former premier’s body was escorted by military honor guards and senior government officials, underscoring the gravity of the moment.
Following the reception, the cortege proceeded to Mamboleo Show ground, where a public viewing was scheduled as part of the official funeral program. The viewing, which began at 9:00 a.m., drew thousands of mourners from Kisumu, Siaya, and neighboring counties, many breaking into tears, song, and traditional dance as the casket was displayed.
Final Journey to Bondo
The body had earlier spent Friday night at the family’s Karen home, following the State Funeral Service held at Nyayo National Stadium, an event attended by heads of state, diplomats, and global dignitaries. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki had announced that the remains would be airlifted to Kisumu before making the final road trip to Bondo for burial on Sunday.
After the public viewing in Kisumu concludes, the convoy will head to Kang’o Kajaramogi, Raila’s ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, where the body will spend the night before interment on Sunday.
The People’s Last Goodbye
In Kisumu, the atmosphere was one of grief intertwined with celebration — a fitting farewell for a man who embodied both struggle and hope. From market women in bright kitenge attire to youth draped in ODM colors, thousands lined the streets chanting “Baba ni shujaa!” (Baba is a hero).
As the late Raila Odinga’s casket made its way through the city, Kisumu stood still — mourning not just a political titan, but a symbol of resilience, democracy, and the unyielding Kenyan spirit.
According to the program there’ll be no speeches during the public body viewing ceremony.
Editor’s Note:
Raila Amollo Odinga, fondly known as “Baba” and “Agwambo”, passed away earlier this month while undergoing treatment in India. He will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
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