The body of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga was airlifted to the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, for public viewing on Saturday, October 18, 2025, marking a historic moment in Kenya’s political history.
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) chopper carrying Raila’s flag-draped casket made a short flight from Kisumu International Airport, shortly after the arrival of the Kenya Air Force aircraft that had transported the body from Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi.
The military aircraft, code-named ENIGMA01, paid tribute to Raila’s enduring legacy as Kenya’s “political enigma.” Upon landing, the casket was accorded a military guard of honour, with a ceremonial water salute by the Kenya Airports Authority’s fire and rescue unit symbolizing the beginning of the solemn proceedings in Kisumu.
Government officials, senior military officers, and members of the Odinga family were present at the airport to receive the body before it was flown to Mamboleo. By the time the chopper landed, the stadium was filled to capacity, with thousands of mourners waving flags, holding portraits, and singing liberation songs that defined Raila’s long political journey.
The body will lie in state throughout the day for public viewing, giving Kenyans a chance to pay their last respects to the man many affectionately called “Baba.”
Security in Kisumu has been heightened, with multi-agency teams from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and county enforcement units deployed to maintain order. Checkpoints and emergency response units have been set up around the city.
Raila Odinga’s burial is scheduled for Sunday in his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where a state funeral will be held, expected to draw local and international dignitaries. Kisumu remains engulfed in emotion as it bids farewell to one of Kenya’s most revered statesmen and democracy icons.