LIVE UPDATES: Raila Odinga’s Final Journey
8:00 AM – Crowds Gather at JKIA
Thousands of mourners have gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to receive the body of Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and long-time opposition leader.
Chants of “Baba! Jowi!” echo through the air as security personnel struggle to contain the growing crowds. Many are waving ODM flags, while others hold portraits of Raila, some shedding tears as the coffin is offloaded from the aircraft arriving from India.
9:45 AM – Emotional Scenes at the Airport
Heavy emotions engulfed the runway as Raila’s casket, draped in the Kenyan national flag, was received by his family, President William Ruto, and other national leaders.
Government officials and opposition figures stood side by side in a rare moment of unity, reflecting Raila’s impact on Kenya’s political and social history.
“Today, Kenya mourns not just a politician, but a patriot who gave everything for democracy,” said President Ruto during the brief ceremony.
11:30 AM – Procession Moves to Parliament Road
The funeral procession has left JKIA en route to Parliament Road for public viewing.
Thousands have lined up along Mombasa Road and Haile Selassie Avenue, singing and waving branches as the hearse slowly moves toward the city center.
Crowds occasionally break into the Luo cultural chant “Jowi!”, symbolizing the passing of a great warrior.
1:00 PM – Public Viewing at Nyayo National Stadium
Due to overwhelming crowds and safety concerns, the public viewing has been shifted to Nyayo National Stadium instead of Parliament Grounds.
Massive turnout continues, with mourners filling the stands as choirs sing tribute songs in Luo, Kiswahili, and English.
Unfortunately, there have been reports of stampedes at the entry gates, with emergency teams on site attending to injured mourners.
2:30 PM – Leaders Pay Tribute
Prominent leaders, both local and international, have gathered to pay tribute.
Among those in attendance are:
President William Ruto
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
Former Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta and Mwai Kibaki’s family representatives
AU officials and envoys from Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa
“He was a father to our democracy,” said Martha Karua in an emotional tribute.
“Raila Odinga taught us that courage and sacrifice build nations.”
4:15 PM – Emotional Scenes Across the Country
In Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Bondo, thousands have taken to the streets to hold mini vigils and prayer meetings.
Shops remain closed as residents light candles and sing dirges in Raila’s honor.
“Baba is going home,” said one mourner in Kisumu. “This is the end of an era — but also the beginning of the legacy he dreamed of.”
6:00 PM – Preparation for Final Journey to Bondo
Raila’s body is expected to be flown to Siaya County tomorrow morning for the final leg of his journey to Bondo, his ancestral home.
Security has been tightened as thousands are expected to camp overnight awaiting his arrival.
Local leaders have announced that a final funeral service will be held at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi, the Odinga family home, followed by a private burial ceremony for close family members.
8:00 PM – Night Vigil and National Prayer
As night falls, candlelight vigils are taking place across major cities — Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
Churches, mosques, and temples are holding prayers for peace and unity as Kenya continues to mourn.
The national broadcaster, KBC, has dedicated 24-hour coverage under the title “Raila Odinga: The People’s Journey Home.”
Final Note
Kenya stands united in grief and gratitude as the life of Raila Amolo Odinga is celebrated nationwide.
His final journey has not only brought tears but also reminded Kenyans of the power of resilience, democracy, and unity that he symbolized for decades.
“Jowi, Baba. Go well, son of Bondo. Kenya will never forget.”
