Mudavadi recounts emotional journey bringing Raila’s body home from India

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has shared his emotional experience of leading the delegation that brought Raila Odinga’s body from India to Kenya, calling it a profound privilege and one of the most moving moments of his life.

Giving his tribute during Raila’s funeral, he said the journey reflected the deep respect both Kenya and the international community had for the late leader.

Mudavadi recounted how, on October 15, hours after Raila passed away, he boarded a Kenya Airways flight to India with government officials to join Raila’s family and accompany his remains back home.

“I had the honour to do one last honour, and that was the honour to lead a delegation on the afternoon of the 15th of October, just a few hours after his passing, to India, so that we can join those who were there and come back with the remains of Raila Amolo Odinga. It was a very moving moment,” Mudavadi said.

Upon arrival, the delegation met Raila’s family, including Winnie, Ruth, Dr Lunya, and Maureen, as well as the Kenyan High Commissioner.

He highlighted the swift coordination of the Indian government, which provided full military honours, ensuring that every protocol was completed respectfully and promptly.

“The Prime Minister of India had actually said that the government of India grants all the respect, military respect possible, within the shortest time possible, to Raila,” the PSC recalled.

Mudavadi described Winnie Odinga as exceptionally composed and strong during the difficult moments, praising her resilience.

“When we went there, we found Winnie, a very strong young lady. Mama Ida, you have somebody strong in your daughter,” he said.

Before returning to Kenya, the delegation draped Raila’s body in the Kenyan flag, a symbolic gesture that left a lasting emotional impact on all present.

“We draped Raila in the Kenyan flag. It was a very emotional moment. We are back here,” Mudavadi said.

He thanked Kenya Airways for responding immediately to President William Ruto’s directive to facilitate the return. The flight, which had the special call sign RAO001, landed in Nairobi at 9:30 am on October 16.

“The national carrier brought Raila back home. The plane landed at 9:30 on the 16th of October, switching from KQ203 to RAO001. That was the title of the flight. A great honour indeed,” Mudavadi said.

Addressing mourners, Mudavadi reflected on Raila’s energy and connection with the people, noting that he would have delighted in the large turnout to celebrate his life.

“Today, Raila is here. You would have loved a crowd like this. This was his moment of excitement, his fodder. But today, Raila speaks to us in silence — total silence. This silence is loud. It speaks to the nation. It speaks with emotion,” he said.

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Mudavadi urged Kenyans to reflect on Ida Odinga’s powerful words, noting that Raila’s silence now carries a message that resonates with the nation.

“Mama Ida, you have spoken. Your speech was so deep and powerful. I can only request Kenyans, please listen to what Mama said. There’s nobody who would be able to understand Mama better than Raila,” he said.

He also recalled Raila’s unique ability to read the political climate with ease, comparing him to a narrator who could turn a soccer match into an emotional spectacle.

“If you wanted to know where your political fortunes were, wait until you listen to him narrating soccer on a political podium. Then you would know whether your goose is cooked or you have a chance,” Mudavadi said.