NAIROBI, Kenya — Mombasa Road has come to a standstill this morning as thousands of Kenyans line the highway to pay their last respects to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, whose body arrived at JKIA from India earlier today.
From City Cabanas to Nyayo Stadium, crowds have flooded both sides of the highway, waving flags, singing freedom songs, and chanting “Baba! Baba!” as the military motorcade carrying Odinga’s body slowly moves toward Lee Funeral Home.
Emotions are running high — with many mourners breaking down in tears, kneeling on the tarmac, or holding placards reading “Fare Thee Well Baba wa Taifa.” Some are draped in the Kenyan flag, while others raise portraits of the late leader in silence.
Traffic has ground to a halt as motorists abandon their cars to witness the historic moment. Police and military escorts are managing both the crowds and stalled vehicles, urging calm and directing traffic to alternative routes through the Nairobi Expressway, Southern Bypass, and Industrial Area access roads.
Vendors have lined the road selling bottled water, flags, and white roses — symbols of peace and farewell. Several businesses along the corridor have closed temporarily, and roadside workers have joined the public to observe the procession.
A solemn calm occasionally breaks into chants of “No Raila, No Peace!” and “Thank you, Baba!” as the convoy passes. At Belle Vue and Capital Centre, crowds erupted into song as the hearse carrying the body came into view.
The government has urged Kenyans to remain orderly and allow the procession to proceed without incident. “This is a national moment of unity and reflection,” said Nairobi Regional Commissioner Katee Mwanza. “Let’s honour Baba with dignity and peace.”
As of midday, Mombasa Road remains impassable, with the motorcade expected to reach Lee Funeral Home later in the afternoon before proceeding to Parliament Buildings for public viewing tomorrow.
