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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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The national carrier said the move is intended to ensure smooth and reliable travel for those heading to the lakeside city, which has recorded heavy bookings amid the ongoing events.
Earlier in Parliament Buildings, Ogeta was overcome with grief while paying his respects to the former Prime Minister.
He was a formidable opponent, but he was an even more invaluable ally in the cause of reconciliation.I have lost a friend and a brother. I will miss our conversations sometimes challenging, always insightful and the fire of belief that never left his eyes.
I had dreamed of retiring together, of growing old hand in hand, sharing quiet sunsets and dreams fulfilled. But now, I realise life’s plans are in the hands of a higher power.
Thank you for standing by me even when I fell short or outright failed, and for always showing me grace. Thank you for your wisdom, your guidance and your unwavering love — not just for me, but for our entire family: Mama, Fidel, Rosie, Winnie, my wife, my children, my in-laws and my friends.
Winnie shared how she felt lucky to have had Raila as her father, alongside three other close family members.
A State funeral in honour of the late ODM chief is being held on Friday at the Nyayo National Stadium.
The two items he carried hold deep symbolic weight. The fly whisk—an ever-present feature in Raila’s rallies and public events—represented his authority and unbroken bond with his supporters.
Preparations were also underway for Saturday’s State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, which is expected to draw global attention and high-level delegations from across the world. Police said that about 10,000 officers had been mobilized to ensure order during the event.
Nairobi’s head of traffic operations, Joseph Chirchir, announced road closures around the stadium to control movement and advised motorists to use alternative routes through Bunyala Road to access the city centre.
