Supporters Allowed Into JKIA to Receive Raila Odinga’s Body
A sombre scene unfolded at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning as hundreds of Raila Odinga’s supporters were allowed into the airport to welcome his body from India, where he passed away while undergoing treatment.
Crowds gathered early in the day, waving flags, carrying twigs, and chanting songs associated with the late opposition leader.
Security was tight, with police and airport officers controlling entry and movement, but supporters were later permitted into designated areas within the airport after consultations between officials.
As the aircraft carrying Raila’s remains landed shortly at 9.30 am, emotions ran high. Many supporters broke down in tears while others sang liberation songs that defined Raila’s political journey.
The atmosphere was heavy with grief but also reverence, as people mourned and wailed.
The emotional reception marked the first moment Kenyans publicly confronted the loss of a man many described as the face of the country’s democratic struggle.
The supporters’ chants of “Baba! Baba!” echoed, capturing the grief and deep admiration that defined the love for Raila Odinga.
