RAILA'S FAREWELL
Security heightened at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University ahead of Raila’s funeral
Ahead of the arrival of the body and family, the military has been making preparations in readiness for the funeral service.
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RAILA'S FAREWELL
Government confirms Mashujaa Day celebrations will proceed as planned
Mwaura said the event remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s national identity and a time to salute the sacrifices of heroes who built and defended the nation.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Government to outline further honours after burial of Raila Odinga
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who co-chairs the National State Funeral Committee, said on Saturday evening that the details will be shared following the completion of the interment ceremonies.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Kenya Airways crew recount emotional task of bringing Raila’s body home
The Captain shared that making the announcement of Raila’s arrival on board was especially difficult as emotions overwhelmed her.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
PHOTOS: Raila’s final voyage to his resting place
One of Kenya's most iconic figures died on October 15, 2025 while undergoing treatment in India, a blow to his family and supporters alike.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
“Go well, Captain”: Nyong’o pays emotional tribute to Raila Odinga
The governor said Raila’s legacy would live far beyond politics, highlighting his unwavering dedication to democratic ideals and his vision for a just and united nation.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Raila Odinga’s Bondo grave construction enters final phase
The construction began on Thursday, October 16, marking a crucial stage in the farewell events that have drawn thousands of mourners from across the country.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Ida Odinga appeals for calm as family prepares for Raila’s burial in Bondo
Addressing the media at her Opoda Farm residence in Bondo on Saturday, Ida said the mourning period should be marked with order and respect, describing it as a time to honour Raila’s memory through unity and reflection rather than disorder.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Raila’s last night at home: Body to be flown to Bondo for vigil
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced that the late leader’s body will be airlifted instead of transported by road, a change made to ensure a smooth, secure, and well-coordinated transfer from Kisumu to Bondo.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Overwhelmed medics as mourners faint during Raila’s viewing in Kisumu
Despite the turmoil, thousands endured the congestion and intense heat to pay their final respects. Many were overcome with emotion, chanting Raila’s name and waving branches as they edged toward the viewing tent.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Governor Orengo: I never imagined a day without Jakom (Raila)
Orengo said he never imagined a time would come when the country would bid farewell to a man who dedicated his life to justice, freedom, and the fight for democracy.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
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.”
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Crowds weep and sing as Raila’s body arrives at Mamboleo Stadium
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
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Security on full alert at Kisumu Stadium ahead of Raila’s public viewing
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
A city in mourning: Raila’s body lands in Kisumu amid tight security
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Raila’s final journey: Body leaves Nairobi for Kisumu under tight military escort
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Obama pays tribute to Raila, hails his dedication to democracy
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Two dead in Nyayo Stadium stampede during Raila Odinga public viewing
The organisation added that an additional 40 patients had been treated through ambulance services on Thursday.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Senator Oburu condemns tear gas use during Raila's public viewing in Kasarani
Senator Oburu urged mourners and security officers to ensure order and allow people to grieve peacefully.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Senator Oburu clarifies Raila’s final resting place, urges peaceful farewell
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Kindiki: Raila Odinga’s body to be airlifted by KDF to Kisumu Saturday
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Kisumu readies for emotional farewell as Raila Odinga returns home
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Raila’s body moves from Nyayo Stadium to Lee Funeral Home ahead of Kisumu flight
The flag-covered casket left in a private hearse, flanked by military escorts, as security officers watched silently.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Kalonzo slams Government over exclusion of Opposition at Raila’s State Funeral Service
Kalonzo also dismissed the effort by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to acknowledge opposition leaders, noting it went largely unnoticed.
Photos
PHOTOS: Emotional goodbyes mark Raila’s final moments in Parliament
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Matiang’i: Raila’s Uhuru Park ceremony was my career’s toughest challenge
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Mama Ida: Let us honour Raila Odinga’s legacy in peace
Mama Ida acknowledged the deep sorrow felt by people across the country but stressed that grief should not lead to unrest.
Global Affairs
Colonel Randrianirina takes office as Madagascar begins transition
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.
News
Inside Kenya’s State Funerals: Meaning, protocols, and honoured leaders
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.
RAILA'S FAREWELL
Raila Odinga funeral plans changed, body not to stay overnight in Karen
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.