Nairobi, October 16, 2025 In a scene both solemn and stirring, the body of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga arrived on Kenyan soil today morning, drawing thousands into a collective moment of mourning. News of his death in India had already rippled across the nation. Now, as his remains were returned, the country paused to say goodbye.
Just after 9:35 a.m., a Kenya Airways flight carrying Odinga’s casket landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, greeted by a water salute and full military honours. The flag-covered coffin was slowly lifted out, and the weight of history seemed to settle in the air. Present were President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, family members, and an array of leaders some steady in protocol, others visibly moved by the moment.
Alongside the formal reception, unexpected urgency broke through. Mourners, clutching twigs and flags, surged past VIP gates toward the runway, breaching security in a desperate longing to draw nearer to their fallen leader. The intrusion briefly halted airport operations and forced a swift response from security forces tasked with maintaining order. The public viewing originally slated for Parliament was also reevaluated amid the chaos.
To manage the expectations and safety of mourners, authorities had prepared in advance. The Ministry of Health positioned 36 ambulances at JKIA, each fully equipped for basic and advanced life support, ready to respond to medical emergencies across the crowd. That readiness reflected the scale of emotion expected and the recognition that grief can strain beyond intention.
By midday, Odinga’s casket had been moved to Lee Funeral Home, then escorted to the Parliament Buildings. But it was later moved to Kasarani stadium where the viewing took place. Kenyans from all walks of life gathered to pay their last respects.
In recognition of the nation’s grief, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a gazette notice declaring Friday, October 17, 2025 a public holiday. That day will host the official state funeral at Nyayo Stadium, where officials, dignitaries and citizens alike will gather to honour Odinga’s life in a public ceremony.
The burial schedule that follows respects Odinga’s known wish to be laid to rest within 72 hours. On Saturday, his body will be transported to Kisumu, where another public viewing is planned. Sunday’s funeral service and burial will take place in Bondo, Siaya County, in his family plot near other loved ones.
From the moment he returned to Kenyan soil, thousands converged not just to witness a state ceremony, but to reflect upon a man whose name and ideals shaped much of modern Kenyan politics.
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