NAIROBI, Kenya – The body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived in Nairobi on Thursday morning to a solemn state reception, marking the beginning of a historic farewell for a man hailed as the father of devolution and a cornerstone of Kenya’s democratic struggle.
Draped in the Kenyan flag, the casket bearing Odinga’s remains was received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by President William Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga.
The moment was steeped in emotion and symbolism — the country united in grief to honour one of its most influential statesmen.
Military officers accorded the late leader full ceremonial honours before placing his casket on a polished gun carriage for the slow procession to Lee Funeral Home.
A Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) military band, resplendent in red ceremonial attire, played solemn tunes as the casket was received, their precision and discipline reflecting the gravity of the occasion.
Security at the airport was tight, with members of the public kept at a distance to maintain order.
Still, hundreds of supporters turned up before dawn, donning ODM-branded shirts and carrying flags in silent tribute to the man who inspired generations through his decades-long pursuit of justice and reform.
Aboard the plane carrying Odinga’s body was a high-level delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. Other dignitaries included Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch. From the Odinga family, East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga accompanied the remains home.
The body will lie at Lee Funeral Home before being moved to Parliament Buildings for public viewing.
President Ruto has declared a state funeral with full honours, to be coordinated by a national committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga.
In accordance with Odinga’s will, he is to be buried within 72 hours of his death. A public funeral service is scheduled for Friday at Nyayo National Stadium, followed by his interment on Sunday at his ancestral home in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, beside his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and son Fidel Odinga.
Kenya is observing a seven-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and Friday declared a public holiday in honour of the late Prime Minister.
