Nairobi — October 16, 2025

The body of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has arrived in Nairobi, closing a poignant chapter in the nation’s history.

The Kenya Airways aircraft — which changed its call sign from KQ203 to RAO001 in honour of the late leader — landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:32 a.m. on Thursday. The symbolic gesture, announced mid-flight, was a moving tribute to the man who spent more than four decades shaping Kenya’s democratic journey.

As the aircraft crossed into Kenyan airspace, tens of thousands followed its progress live on Flightradar24. Across social media, users shared emotional tributes, many writing simply, “Baba is home.”

At JKIA, President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto led a high-level delegation to receive the plane, joined by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, members of the Odinga family, and senior government officials.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who accompanied the body from India, described the moment as both solemn and proud. “This is not just the return of a leader; it is the homecoming of Kenya’s conscience,” Mudavadi said.

A Nation in Mourning Prepares to Say Goodbye

From the airport, the cortege made its way to Lee Funeral Home, where the body will rest briefly before being moved to Parliament Buildings. Public viewing will take place between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., with large screens set up in major towns to allow Kenyans across the country to follow the proceedings.

The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in honour of the late leader. A State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo Stadium from 8 a.m., followed by an overnight vigil at Raila’s Karen residence.

On Saturday, the body will be flown to Kisumu, where thousands are expected to gather before the convoy travels to Bondo, Siaya County, for Sunday’s burial — in keeping with Odinga’s wishes and Anglican Church traditions.

Raila Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday morning at Devamatha Hospital in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest.

His final homecoming brings to an end one of Kenya’s most defining political lives — a story of resilience, reform, and relentless pursuit of justice. Yet, even in death, Raila Odinga’s presence continues to unite the nation he long dreamed of healing.