The remains of Kenya’s former Prime Minister and opposition leader, Raila Odinga, arrived in his hometown in western Kenya on Saturday, drawing tens of thousands of mourners to a packed stadium for an emotional homecoming ceremony.
Odinga, who passed away in India where he was receiving medical treatment, was flown into the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi on Thursday before being transported by helicopter to his political stronghold for final tributes.
According to AFP, the atmosphere turned chaotic when a large crowd of mourners forced their way through a security gate, with some climbing over walls to gain entry into the stadium.
Witnesses described the scene as both heartbreaking and historic. “People just wanted to catch a glimpse of him one last time. Odinga was not just a politician—he was a father figure to many of us,” said 45-year-old Nairobi resident, Peter Ochieng.
The crowd, waving Kenyan flags and chanting songs in Odinga’s honor, wept and cheered as the helicopter carrying his coffin descended. Security personnel struggled to maintain order as the crowd surged forward.
Government officials, foreign dignitaries, and regional leaders are expected to attend his state funeral, scheduled for Sunday.
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, was widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential political figures and a tireless advocate for democracy and reform.
“He fought for a fairer Kenya and gave his life to the struggle for justice,” said a mourner, Mary Achieng, who traveled from Kisumu to pay her respects. “Today, the nation mourns a hero.”
Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain calm and adhere to safety protocols during the funeral events.
Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and unwavering commitment to the people.
