Thousands of mourners converged at the Mamboleo grounds in Kisumu on Saturday, October 18, 2025, to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The solemn procession began shortly after a military plane carrying his remains landed at Kisumu International Airport in the morning. This public viewing offers a final opportunity for Kenyans to honour a towering figure in the nation's political landscape before his burial on Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Bondo, Siaya County.

Preparations for the arrival and public viewing were meticulously finalised on Friday, October 17, 2025. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) was tasked with airlifting the body from Nairobi to Kisumu. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who chairs the funeral planning committee, had urged members of the public to be seated by 7:00 AM EAT to ensure a dignified reception. Security operations have been significantly heightened in both Kisumu and Bondo, involving national security agencies, local leaders, and volunteers. Roads leading to Mamboleo grounds were cleared and secured to facilitate the smooth flow of mourners. Authorities have appealed for order and early arrival to manage the large crowds expected from the Nyanza region and other parts of the country.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Odinga's passing marks a significant moment in Kenya's history. A veteran politician, he played a pivotal role in the country's struggle for multi-party democracy and has been a central figure in Kenyan politics for decades. His political career was characterised by both fervent support and strong opposition, reflecting his enduring influence on national discourse and development. His journey from a political detainee to a presidential contender, and later a key figure in various governments, underscores his resilience and impact on the nation's democratic evolution.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Ahead of the public viewing in Kisumu, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, the elder brother of the late former Prime Minister, condemned a teargassing incident that occurred during a public viewing at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi. Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, October 17, 2025, Oburu Odinga appealed for calm and dignity from mourners. He urged Kenyans to uphold peace and respect as they pay their final respects to a man he described as deeply loved by his people. “I appeal to our people to be peaceful. I know the pain you feel, but this is not the time to do anything that could cause harm to our people,” Oburu said, his tone heavy with emotion. “We want to behave with dignity. We want our people to respect this occasion because Raila loved them so much, and they should also treat his send-off with dignity.”

Evidence/Data

• Date of Public Viewing (Kisumu): Saturday, October 18, 2025
• Location of Public Viewing (Kisumu): Mamboleo Grounds
• Date of Burial: Sunday, October 19, 2025
• Location of Burial: Bondo home, Siaya County
• Funeral Planning Committee Chair: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki
• Security Agencies Involved: Kenya Defence Forces, national security agencies, local leaders, volunteers

Timeline and Next Steps

Following the public viewing at Mamboleo grounds, the body of the former Prime Minister will be transported by road to his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. The final burial ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025. This marks the culmination of a period of national mourning and public tributes across the country.

What to Watch

The focus now shifts to the burial ceremony in Bondo, where a large number of dignitaries, political leaders, and members of the public are expected to gather. Observers will be keen to note the unity and decorum displayed during the final rites, as well as any political pronouncements or gestures that may emerge during this significant national event. The legacy of Raila Odinga and its future implications for Kenyan politics will undoubtedly be a key area of discussion and analysis in the coming days and weeks.