The body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has arrived in Kisumu aboard a military helicopter, marking a solemn moment for the lakeside city and the nation.
The aircraft landed at 7:20 am, under tight security. It was coded ENIGMA01.
Upon arrival, Raila received his final military water salute. This historic moment marked his final flight to Kisumu.
The aircraft was welcomed by military personnel preparing to oversee the transfer of the casket to Mamboleo Stadium.
The stadium has been designated as the official venue for public viewing.
A short interfaith prayer service will precede the viewing, allowing mourners to pay their respects in a peaceful and orderly manner.
Religious leaders from various denominations are expected to lead the prayers.
Members of the public will be allowed to view the body throughout the day.
Security agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service, are on high alert to ensure safety and maintain order.
Authorities have emphasised that peace is paramount and have urged mourners to remain calm and respectful.
On Friday, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o called for calm, urging residents to demonstrate restraint and honour Raila’s legacy through peace.
“People in this region love peace. Let that be proven on Saturday, so that we don’t let down our party leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, his family, the Kenyan nation, and the international community,” he said.
“Let us go down in history as a community that bid farewell to our leader in a dignified and civilised manner.”
The viewing is part of a series of national events honoring Raila’s legacy as a key figure in Kenya’s political history.
Saturday’s funeral programme is part of a broader national tribute to Raila’s legacy, a man remembered for his decades-long struggle for democracy, justice and unity in Kenya.
Later on, the body will be moved from Kisumu to Raila’s rural home in Bondo, Siaya County.
A state burial service will be held in Bondo on Sunday, attended by national leaders, dignitaries and family members.
Raila will be laid to rest in accordance with his wishes to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.
The former opposition leader passed away in India on October 13, 2025. He had gone for treatment and according to his family, he expected to fly home the next day – alive and well.
Raila’s body was airlifted to Kenya on Thursday, where it was received at JKIA by President William Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga.
On Friday, the government held a State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium and later a public viewing.
The country is on a seven-day mourning period.
