Body of Raila Odinga arrives at Mamboleo for public viewing

The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has arrived in Kisumu for the final public viewing at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo.

The viewing is set to begin at 9 a.m. and continue into the afternoon, drawing thousands of mourners from across the country eager to pay their last respects to the man fondly known as Baba.

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Crowds began gathering at the stadium as early as 5 am, with locals singing liberation songs and waving flags in honour of the opposition icon.

The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the chopper carrying Raila’s remains touched down shortly after that of top Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers, who are part of the official delegation overseeing the ceremony.

Initially, plans had been in place for Raila’s body to be transported from Kisumu international airport to Mambeo stadium by road, allowing Kenyans along the route to pay tribute.

However, in a last-minute change, the government opted for air transport, citing security and logistical concerns.

The shift ensured the safe and timely arrival of the body, with preparations in Kisumu having begun days in advance.

Before the Kisumu viewing, Nairobians were granted a chance to bid farewell at Nyayo Stadium, following an earlier viewing at Kasarani.

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Both venues witnessed overwhelming turnouts as citizens gathered to honour Raila’s decades-long struggle for democracy and equality.

Today’s ceremony marks the final opportunity for Kenyans to view his body before it proceeds to his Bondo home in Siaya County for burial on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Security has been heightened across the lakeside city, with police officers, KDF soldiers, and local administration units coordinating crowd control and ensuring order.

Dignitaries, family members, and political leaders from across the political divide are expected to attend.

Raila Odinga, who died at the age of 80, will be laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.