Kisumu City was awash with grief and a sea of humanity on Saturday, October 18, 2025, as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrived at Kisumu International Airport. The veteran politician's remains were airlifted from Nairobi by a Kenya Air Force military plane, coded ENIGMA01, touching down at approximately 7:20 AM EAT.

Upon arrival, the aircraft received a ceremonial military water salute, a poignant tribute marking Odinga's final flight to his political stronghold. The casket, draped in the national flag, was then transferred to a helicopter, believed to belong to the National Intelligence Service (NIS), for onward transportation to the Mamboleo Showgrounds.

The Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, located within the Mamboleo Showgrounds, was designated as the venue for public viewing. By early morning, thousands of mourners had already filled the 20,000-capacity stadium, with many having camped overnight in Kisumu's streets. Chants of "Baba! Baba!" echoed through the city as supporters, some waving twigs—a traditional Luo symbol of mourning—and others holding portraits of Odinga, awaited the opportunity to pay their final respects.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 after suffering a cardiac arrest in India, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics for over four decades. His death has elicited a national outpouring of grief, with a four-day funeral programme initiated to honour his legacy.

The decision to hold a public viewing in Kisumu underscores the deep connection Odinga had with the Nyanza region, which has historically been his political bedrock. The event provides an opportunity for his long-time supporters to bid him farewell in person.

Laws, Policy and Governance

The funeral arrangements for the former Prime Minister have been coordinated by a National Funeral Committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Odinga's elder brother, Oburu Odinga. The state funeral includes full military honours, reflecting Odinga's stature as a statesman.

Security measures have been significantly heightened across Kisumu and Bondo, with personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces and National Police Service deployed to ensure order and safety during the mourning period. Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o had urged residents to maintain peace and dignity during the farewell, a sentiment echoed by authorities emphasizing the paramount importance of calm and respect.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Mourners from various parts of the Nyanza region, including Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties, converged in Kisumu, with some travelling overnight to be present. Mark Oluoch, a mourner from Homa Bay, shared his determination to witness the final viewing, stating, "This is my last time seeing him, and I wouldn't trade it for anything."

Evidence/Data

• Arrival Time in Kisumu: Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:20 AM EAT.
• Public Viewing Venue: Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Mamboleo Showgrounds, Kisumu.
• Stadium Capacity: The Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium has a capacity of 20,000.
• Departure from Nairobi: The body was airlifted from Nairobi's Lee Funeral Home.
• Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest in India on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Risks and Implications

The immense crowds gathered in Kisumu, while a testament to Odinga's popularity, presented significant logistical and security challenges. Authorities had to manage the flow of mourners and ensure public safety, particularly given previous incidents of chaos during public viewings in Nairobi.

Timeline and Next Steps

Following the public viewing in Kisumu, Odinga's body is scheduled to be transported by road to Bondo, Siaya County, later on Saturday, October 18, 2025, for an overnight stay at his family home. The final funeral service and burial rites are slated for Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Bondo, to be conducted according to the traditions of the Anglican Church of Kenya.

What to Watch

The focus now shifts to Bondo, where the final farewell will take place. The burial is expected to draw a more intimate gathering of family members and close friends, in line with Odinga's personal wishes. The nation will be watching for the peaceful conclusion of the funeral proceedings and the lasting impact of Odinga's legacy on Kenya's political landscape.