Emotions ran high on Saturday morning at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu, where thousands of mourners gathered for the public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The atmosphere was somber, charged with grief and reflection, as Kenyans from all walks of life came to pay their final respects to one of the country’s most iconic political figures.
Among the deeply emotional moments was when Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, a close ally and ardent supporter of the late opposition leader, broke down in tears. Dressed in dark attire adorned with an image of Raila, Wanga could be seen wiping tears with a white handkerchief as she wept openly. Fellow mourners and state officials surrounded her, offering words of comfort as she struggled to contain her emotions.
Cameras captured the poignant moment, symbolizing the depth of loss felt by many of Raila’s longtime allies and supporters. The sight of Wanga breaking down moved many in attendance, underscoring the magnitude of Odinga’s influence and the personal connections he forged throughout his decades in public service.
Raila’s body was airlifted to Mamboleo Stadium, arriving at approximately 8:47 a.m. after landing at Kisumu International Airport. Mourners had already begun arriving as early as 6 a.m., waving Kenyan flags and carrying twigs—a traditional symbol of mourning and solidarity.
The public viewing at Mamboleo is scheduled to continue from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., after which the body will be transported by road to Bondo for an overnight vigil. A state funeral will take place on Sunday in Bondo, following similar ceremonies in Nairobi earlier in the week.
Authorities have enhanced security and crowd control measures to ensure the day’s events proceed peacefully, as the nation continues to mourn the loss of a towering statesman.
