Who shall cry for Kisumu? A city's last show of love for their hero Raila Odinga
The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was regarded by many as a symbol of hope, resilience, and liberation in his Nyanza bastion.
When he was alive, they heeded every call he made without resistance. Even in death, Kisumu residents answered the call to pay their last respects to their hero, Raila Odinga.
The history of opposition politics in Kenya cannot be told without recognising the contribution of Kisumu and its people, a role shaped over the years by the Odingas.
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In almost every protest, including against electoral malpractice, Kisumu bore the greatest scars. Here, in his Nyanza bastion, the late Odinga was regarded by many as a symbol of hope, resilience, and liberation.
On Saturday, the emotional atmosphere was heavy, with thousands lining up for hours to pay tribute. Several, overwhelmed with emotion, collapsed as they struggled to come to terms with the loss after viewing his body at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu.
Those who collapsed were helped by Red Cross personnel and St John Ambulance teams who were on standby to provide emergency assistance.
Others were seen crying uncontrollably and singing emotional tribute songs. Some waved flags as they waited to file past the casket.
Due to the large turnout, the government has announced changes to transport plans for Odinga's body. It will now be airlifted from the stadium to his rural home in Bondo for the night vigil.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the decision was made for logistical and security reasons following consultations with the National Funeral Steering Committee and the family.
“The body will be flown directly to Bondo to ensure a smooth and respectful transition,” said Omollo.
However, public viewing at Mamboleo Stadium, scheduled to end at 3:00 pm, could be extended, depending on crowd size.
Omollo acknowledged the unprecedented turnout since Odinga’s body arrived in Kisumu, saying the outpouring of emotion reflected the immense respect and love Kenyans feel for him.
“We have to agree that in the history of this country, there has never been a farewell of this magnitude. This is Raila's send-off, showing the impact he had on generations of Kenyans,” he said.
He assured mourners that no one would be left out and urged peaceful conduct during the national mourning period.
“Odinga cherished peace and unity. It is our duty to honour his legacy by maintaining calm here and in Bondo, where the burial will take place.”
The PS also reassured supporters that they are safe under President William Ruto’s leadership.
“Odinga supported the broad-based government. His supporters and the people of Nyanza should continue working with the government.”
In Bondo, the body will be taken to Odinga's Opoda home for a night vigil ahead of the burial at Kang'o Ka Jaramogi on Sunday. Only dignitaries and family members will attend the private ceremony, which will be broadcast for mourners at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University.
Security agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS), have meanwhile maintained tight surveillance across Kisumu and Siaya counties to ensure smooth coordination.
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