Tens of thousands of mourners filled the Mamboleo Showground in Kisumu on Saturday to pay their final respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) announced that there would be no speeches during the event, emphasizing that the day was solely dedicated to public viewing of the fallen leader’s body.
In a statement posted on X, ODM urged the public to remain peaceful and orderly as they bid farewell to a man many fondly referred to as Baba. “No speeches at Mamboleo Showground. Only viewing,” read the statement, noting that Major General Jeff Nyagah, General Officer Commanding Western Command, would oversee the day’s programme.
The day began at 7:20 a.m. when a military helicopter carrying Odinga’s remains landed at Kisumu International Airport to a solemn water cannon salute. From there, the casket was transferred to another military aircraft that flew to Mamboleo, where thousands had already gathered despite tight security.
The crowd erupted in emotion when the chopper touched down at 8:48 a.m., with some mourners breaking down in tears while others fainted upon seeing the flag-draped casket. Medical teams were on standby to assist those overwhelmed by grief.
Governors Anyang’ Nyong’o, Gladys Wanga, Paul Otuoma, and Ochillo Ayacko, along with several MPs, were among the leaders present. Security was tight, with officers from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and National Youth Service deployed to ensure order.
Public viewing began at 9:45 a.m. and was scheduled to continue until 3:00 p.m. The body will later be flown to Bondo, where it will spend the night ahead of Sunday’s state funeral.
Raila Odinga passed away in India on October 15, 2025, after suffering a heart attack. His death has plunged the nation into deep mourning.
