Raila’s body has arrived in Kisumu as thousands gather for a final farewell.


The remains of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga touched down at Kisumu International Airport on Saturday morning, greeted by a hero’s welcome in anticipation of public viewing in the lakeside city.

 A vast crowd filled the streets, waving twigs, the traditional Luo symbol of mourning, as chants of “Baba! Baba!” echoed in the air. Many were deeply moved, shedding tears openly as the casket of the veteran opposition leader was transported to the Jomo Kenyatta Sports Ground for viewing. From dawn, scenes of chaos yet profound emotion unfolded. Men, women, and youth endured the heat, some holding portraits of Raila, while others played his old campaign songs through portable speakers. Shops along Oginga Odinga Street remained closed as Kisumu came to a halt in tribute to the man referred to as “the son of the lake.” For many, this was not merely the mourning of a political giant but of a paternal figure and liberator whose voice advocated for democracy and the struggles of the common mwananchi for decades. “Ni uchungu sana… it’s like losing our own blood,” expressed 57-year-old John Atieno, fighting back tears. “We have never known another leader like him. This is our father.” The viewing, scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offers residents an opportunity to pay their final respects before Raila’s body is transported by road to his rural home in Bondo for an overnight stay prior to Sunday’s burial. To ensure order, security forces have limited access to six of the 13 stands at the Sports Ground, learning from the disorder that affected the viewing in Nairobi earlier this week. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo stated that the Kisumu event would remain apolitical. “Today is for the people. There will be no speeches, only time for wananchi to view the body and pay their respects,” he declared. Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o encouraged residents to maintain peace and dignity in honour of Raila’s lasting legacy.

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