Emotional scenes at Mamboleo grounds as Kisumu bids goodbye to Raila Odinga

Emotions ran high, and wails filled the air as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrived at the Mamboleo grounds in Kisumu for public viewing.

It was a historic and deeply emotional moment for many who gathered to bid a final farewell to a man they regarded as their leader, symbol of resilience, and the "People’s President".

By early morning, thousands had already streamed into the stadium, which was packed to capacity long before 7 am.

The crowd, waving Kenyan flags and holding white handkerchiefs and twigs, erupted into tears and song as the military aircraft carrying Raila’s remains touched down at the stadium.

A military guard of honour received the casket, draped in the national flag, as the disciplined forces accorded him full military honours.

Raila’s body touched down at 8:48 am with the crowds chanting and wailing.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body arrives at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, aboard a KDF helicopter for public viewing. Several leaders are in attendance as the casket is placed at the viewing point for residents to pay their final respects. pic.twitter.com/Wjaygzw2SF

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 18, 2025

Raila’s bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, was also on the aircraft in the company of a few family members.

At around 8:55 am, the casket was offloaded from the craft as the crowds chanted and wailed.

The military escorted the casket in a slow march as they made their way to the dias.

The emotional ceremony marked the last time Kenyans would view Raila, who has been celebrated across the nation for his lifelong struggle for democracy and justice.

Political leaders from cabinet secretaries, governors, Members of Parliament, and military as well as security officers were also present at the stadium together with Raila's family members.

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Security around the stadium was exceptionally tight, with multi-agency officers drawn from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and county enforcement teams stationed at all key points.

Multiple checkpoints were set up at every entry and exit, with thorough screening for those entering the venue. Vehicles were also inspected and directed to designated parking areas to maintain order.

Barricades were erected along major access routes, including the Mamboleo–Miwani and Kibos roads, to regulate both vehicular and human movement.

Traffic officers guided motorists while ensuring smooth flow around the busy routes leading to the stadium.

Emergency response teams and ambulances from the Kisumu County Government and the Kenya Red Cross were stationed at strategic locations to handle any emergencies.

Medical tents were also set up to provide first aid and medical support for the large number of mourners expected throughout the day.

County officials confirmed that preparations were completed overnight, with clear entry lanes and seating arrangements designed to accommodate the thousands of mourners arriving from across the country.

Only accredited journalists and authorised personnel were allowed access to the restricted zone near the main dais, where the body lay in state for viewing.

Religious leaders from various denominations led an interfaith prayer service before the viewing began, allowing mourners to pay their last respects in peace and reflection.

Earlier, Raila’s body had been flown to Kisumu aboard a military helicopter coded ENIGMA01, which landed at 7:20 a.m. under tight security.

Upon arrival, he was accorded a water salute — a symbolic military tribute marking his final journey to the lakeside city he loved dearly.

The viewing ceremony in Kisumu forms part of a series of national tributes celebrating Raila’s lifelong contribution to Kenya’s democracy, justice, and unity. The government had on Friday held a State Funeral service at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi before the body was flown to Kisumu.

Security agencies have maintained heightened vigilance to ensure peace and safety throughout the event. Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm and honour the moment with the dignity it deserves.

Kisumu Governor Anyang'’ Nyong’o earlier urged residents to uphold peace and restraint during the farewell, saying this would best honour Raila’s memory and legacy.

“People in this region love peace. Let that be proven on Saturday, so that we don’t let down our party leader, the Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, his family, the Kenyan nation, and the international community,” he said. “Let us go down in history as a community that bid farewell to our leader in a dignified and civilised manner.”

Later, the body will be transported from Kisumu to Raila’s rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where a state burial service will be held on Sunday, attended by national leaders, dignitaries, and family members. He will be laid to rest in line with his wishes to be buried within 72 hours of his passing.

Raila died in India on October 13, 2025, where he had travelled for medical treatment. According to his family, he was expected to return home the following day. His body was airlifted back to Kenya on Thursday and received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by President William Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga.