The flight which carried the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga from India received a historic water salute upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Kenya Airways flight RAO001, which had earlier changed its call sign from KQ203 in honour of the late leader, touched down at 9:33 am.

Jets of water sprayed from fire trucks as the aircraft rolled on the runway, marking the first time such a tribute has been performed for a Kenyan leader.

President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and other family members were present to receive the body.

The coffin, draped in the national flag, was then carried from the plane.

From early morning, thousands of Kenyans had filled the Central Business District, lining the streets to pay their respects. Many waved flags, held portraits of Raila.

A solemn national homecoming

The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday to honour Raila’s legacy.

A State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo Stadium from 8 a.m., followed by an overnight vigil at his Karen residence.

On Saturday, the body will be flown to Kisumu and then transported to Bondo, Siaya County, for burial on Sunday according to Anglican Church traditions.

Raila Odinga, aged 80, passed away on Wednesday in India after suffering a cardiac arrest. His homecoming marks the end of a chapter in Kenya’s history, defined by resilience, reform, and an unyielding belief in justice.