[PHOTOS] Thousands line up to view Raila's body at Mamboleo, Kisumu

Emotional scenes marked the start of the public viewing in his home region.

by SHARON MWENDE

News18 October 2025 - 11:05

In Summary

Crowds had gathered as early as dawn, waving flags, twigs, carrying portraits and chanting dirges.
The government had earlier shifted the venue of the public viewing from Moi Stadium to Mamboleo to accommodate the expected large turnout.

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Thousands of mourners on Saturday thronged Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Emotional scenes marked the start of the public viewing in his home region.

The body arrived in Kisumu shortly after 7am, under tight security, accompanied by family members and senior government officials.

Crowds had gathered as early as dawn, waving flags, twigs, carrying portraits and chanting dirges.

The government had earlier shifted the venue of the public viewing from Moi Stadium to Mamboleo to accommodate the expected large turnout.

Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga said the change was meant to ensure better crowd management and safety, following incidents of congestion witnessed during a similar exercise in Nairobi.

At the stadium, the mood was sombre and reflective.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Raila’s aide Maurice Ogeta broke down in tears.

Security was tight, with police and military officers stationed at all entry points.

Mourners were screened before being allowed into the stadium, where viewing lines snaked for several hundred metres.

Despite the large numbers, the process remained largely calm and orderly.