The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Draped in the Kenyan flag, the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a solemn yet historic reception led by President William Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga. The nation received the remains of the man celebrated as the father of devolution and a cornerstone of Kenya’s democratic journey.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
The casket was accorded full military honours before being placed on a gun carriage for transport to Lee Funeral Home under tight security.
Earlier, members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) had prepared the ceremonial gun carriage and rehearsed slow, dignified tunes beside the runway. The military band, immaculately dressed in their ceremonial attire, stood in formation — their precision and composure underscoring the weight of the occasion.
Tearful supporters gathered outside the airport from the early morning hours, wearing shirts and hoodies emblazoned with Raila’s name and ODM insignia. Public access to the main entrance was restricted to maintain order, with crowds held at a distance under heavy police and military watch.
On board the flight carrying Raila’s remains was a high-powered delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accompanied by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah, and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch. EALA MP Winnie Odinga represented the Odinga family.
Click Here To Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel
The body was later moved to Lee Funeral Home, where it will lie before being transferred to Parliament Buildings for public viewing.
President Ruto has announced that Raila will be accorded a full state funeral. The national planning committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga, is overseeing the arrangements.
In accordance with Raila’s will, he will be buried within 72 hours of his passing. A national funeral service will be held on Friday at Nyayo Stadium, followed by his burial on Sunday in Kango Ka Jaramogi, Bondo, beside his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and son, Fidel.
Kenya remains in a seven-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and Friday declared a public holiday in honour of the late statesman.
