Kisumu, Kenya – The body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga received a symbolic water cannon salute upon its arrival at Kisumu International Airport on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at approximately 7:20 AM EAT. This ceremonial gesture, typically reserved for significant aviation milestones, is part of the full military honours extended to Odinga following President William Ruto's proclamation of a State Funeral.

The aircraft, a Kenya Air Force C-27J Spartan, which is usually designated for Very, Very Important Persons (VVIPs) such as the President and the Chief of Defence Forces, landed after a 30-minute flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. It was escorted by a military helicopter that had taken off simultaneously from Embakasi Airbase.

Historical and Political Context

Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kochi, India, at the age of 80, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics. His death, attributed to cardiac arrest, prompted President Ruto to declare a seven-day period of national mourning, during which the national flag is being flown at half-mast across the country and at all Kenyan diplomatic missions abroad. President Ruto also directed that senior government officials would not fly the national flag on their official vehicles until Odinga's interment.

This is the second time Odinga's body has received a water cannon salute. The first occurred upon its arrival at JKIA from India, aboard a Kenya Airways flight that had its tail number symbolically changed from KQ203 to RAO001 upon entering Kenyan airspace, a tribute to his initials and stature.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The decision to accord Odinga a State Funeral with full military honours underscores his significant contributions to the nation. While such honours are standard for sitting or former presidents, they can be extended to other distinguished individuals upon authorization by the Defence Council, recognising their national contribution. According to military protocols, a former Prime Minister is typically honoured with a 17-gun salute.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

A high-level committee co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Raila's elder brother, was formed to oversee the funeral arrangements. The public viewing in Kisumu allows residents of Nyanza and Odinga's long-time supporters to pay their final respects. Military units are actively involved in the preparations at Mamboleo Stadium, where the public viewing is scheduled.

Evidence/Data Box

• **Date of Death:** Wednesday, October 15, 2025
• **Cause of Death:** Cardiac arrest
• **Age at Death:** 80 years
• **National Mourning Period:** Seven days, with flags at half-mast (President William Ruto, October 15, 2025)
• **Aircraft for Repatriation:** Kenya Airways flight KQ203, renamed RAO001 in Kenyan airspace (Kenya Airways, October 16, 2025)
• **Aircraft for Kisumu Transfer:** Kenya Air Force C-27J Spartan
• **Mamboleo Stadium Capacity:** Approximately 30,000 (Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Kisumu)

Risks and Implications

The large gatherings for public viewing, as seen previously at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, have presented logistical challenges and, at times, led to disruptions. Authorities are working to ensure order and allow Kenyans to mourn peacefully. The continuous military guard on Odinga's body until interment highlights the solemnity and security considerations of the State Funeral.

Timeline and Next Steps

The body departed JKIA on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 6:50 AM EAT, arriving in Kisumu approximately 30 minutes later. Public viewing is now underway at Mamboleo Stadium. The State Funeral service was held at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 17, 2025. Odinga is expected to be buried on Sunday at his family home in Bondo, Siaya County.

What to Watch

The coming days will focus on the final rites and burial in Bondo, with continued national and international attention on the farewell of this influential leader. The coordination between government and family in managing the extensive funeral arrangements will remain a key aspect to observe.