The body of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has finally arrived in Nairobi, marking a historic moment in the country’s history.

The Kenya Airways flight, which had earlier changed its call sign from KQ203 to RAO001 in honour of the late leader, touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:33 am on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The special designation, announced by Kenya Airways as the plane entered Kenyan airspace, was a symbolic tribute to the man who defined Kenya’s democratic struggle for over four decades.

Tens of thousands of Kenyans followed the flight live on Flightradar24, with the moment it crossed into Kenya sparking emotional reactions across social media.

The aircraft is received by President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, retired president Uhuru Kenyatta, members of the Odinga family, and senior government officials.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who led the delegation that accompanied the body from India, described the homecoming as a solemn but proud moment for the Republic of Kenya.

Nation prepares for final farewell

The body will then be taken to Lee Funeral Home, where it will remain briefly before being moved to Parliament Buildings for public viewing. Kenyans will have an opportunity to pay their last respects between 12 pm and 5 pm, with large screens set up in major towns for those unable to attend in person.

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 am, followed by an overnight vigil at his Karen residence. On Saturday, the body will be flown to Kisumu and later transported to Bondo, Siaya County, where the burial will take place on Sunday.

Raila Odinga, aged 80, passed away on Wednesday morning at Devamatha Hospital in Kochi, India, after suffering a cardiac arrest. His final homecoming brings to a close a chapter in Kenya’s history defined by resilience, reform, and unyielding belief in justice.