Military march in Mamboleo marks Raila’s last homecoming
The journey was carried out by a Kenya Air Force Leonardo C-27J Spartan with the call sign ENIGMA01 — a fitting reference to the man often described as Kenya’s “political enigma.”
The journey was carried out by a Kenya Air Force Leonardo C-27J Spartan with the call sign ENIGMA01 — a fitting reference to the man often described as Kenya’s “political enigma.”
With eight points on offer to the winner of Saturday's 100km race, he and Norris – 22 points behind Piastri – both have a good chance to reduce the gap to the Australian who was three tenths slower than his teammate.
Military helicopters had hovered over the venue earlier in the morning as part of an elaborate security drill ahead of the airlift and ceremony. Despite heavy rainfall overnight, hundreds gathered at Kisumu International Airport as early as 5 a.m., braving the cold to witness the arrival. Along the main roads to the stadium, residents lined the streets, cheering and waving as the convoy made its way through the city
Multiple security checkpoints have been mounted at every entry and exit, where attendees are being frisked, and vehicles inspected before gaining access. Those without accreditation are being turned away from restricted zones, especially near the main dais where the casket will be placed for public homage.
The aircraft, coded ENIGMA01, touched down at 7:20 am amid heightened security and solemn silence from thousands of mourners who had gathered to witness the historic moment.
Kenya Defence Forces officers and clergy accompanied the brief but solemn transfer as part of the state honours accorded to the late opposition leader. The aircraft took off from Nairobi at 6 a.m., headed to Kisumu, where thousands were waiting to receive him.
Obama, whose paternal roots trace back to Kenya’s Luo community, the same ethnic group as Raila, highlighted that the late leader’s influence extended beyond national borders.
The organisation added that an additional 40 patients had been treated through ambulance services on Thursday.
Senator Oburu urged mourners and security officers to ensure order and allow people to grieve peacefully.
The Senator confirmed that Raila will be laid to rest at the family plot in Nyamira Kango, alongside both his mother and father, contrary to reports suggesting he would be buried only next to his mother.
Kindiki advised members of the public attending the Kisumu event to be seated by 7 am. He added that public viewing at Mamboleo will continue for most of the day “until we are satisfied everyone has had a chance.” Later, the body will be taken to Bondo for an overnight stay ahead of Sunday’s burial. The final day’s programme will be released on Saturday evening through a media notice.
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Speaking to the media on Friday, Omollo explained that the body will not land at Kisumu International Airport, as earlier planned, but will instead go straight to Mamboleo Stadium.
The deal extends a collaboration that began three years ago and ensures Spotify retains naming rights for the Camp Nou until 2034, as the iconic stadium undergoes extensive renovation.
"I was wrong (about Palmer). Unfortunately, he needs to be out for six more weeks," Maresca told reporters on Friday.
The flag-covered casket left in a private hearse, flanked by military escorts, as security officers watched silently.
Kalonzo also dismissed the effort by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to acknowledge opposition leaders, noting it went largely unnoticed.
There is the possibility of an added slot for Africa at next year’s finals with the winners of next month’s playoffs advancing to an intercontinental playoff tournament in March from which the last two World Cup places will be decided.
In a match played behind closed doors at a gloomy Ulinzi ground, the Sudanese side took the initiative with an early goal that will ensure they carry a healthy lead back home ahead of the second leg clash next week in Omdurman.
Many recalled Raila’s years in Parliament, highlighting his contributions to legislation and national discourse. The session was not just a farewell but also a commemoration of a man whose presence shaped the corridors of power for decades.
Liverpool suffered defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray in the Champions League and Chelsea before the international break, leaving them to fall one point behind title rivals Arsenal.
Matiang’i noted that Raila’s concern for education was constant. During his time as Education Cabinet Secretary, he often received messages from Raila about schools in Nyanza and Western Kenya, with guidance on improving performance.
Continental heavyweights enter at this stage while several in-form sides arrive with momentum from the opening round, setting up a compelling set of fixtures.
Mama Ida acknowledged the deep sorrow felt by people across the country but stressed that grief should not lead to unrest.
The former military commander formally took office at the Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, stepping in after President Andry Rajoelina fled the country and was later removed from office. Crowds, including the young activists who led the protests, attended the ceremony to witness the transfer of power.
The decision to grant one rests with the President, often in consultation with the Cabinet, and is formally communicated through a Gazette Notice or official statement.
In a statement released on Friday, October 17, 2025, ODM’s Director of Communications, Philip Etale, confirmed that the national funeral committee had decided against taking the late leader’s body to his Karen residence for an overnight stay, as had initially been scheduled.
For decades, Hon. Raila stood at the forefront of Kenya’s struggle for freedom, justice and unity. His courage in the face of adversity, his resilience through moments of trial and his unwavering belief in Kenya’s promise left a lasting imprint on our national story.
Arsenal captain Odegaard, who was sidelined for two weeks last month due to a shoulder issue, is the club's fourth player currently out of action with a knee injury after Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke.
The revelation brought profound emotion to a service already charged with grief. Born just over a year apart, the two brothers were not only family but also close political allies, navigating Kenya’s turbulent journey toward democracy together.