A team led by the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister is already at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, set to depart for India to bring back the remains of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The leaders were already dressed in travel gear, ready for the long journey to India, except for Musalia Mudavadi, who was still in the attire he wore during the announcement of Raila’s demise. They were donning casual and unofficial clothes such as jeans and caps, a deviation from their usual formal suits.

This comes after President Ruto named a delegation, led by the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, to facilitate the proper organization of the return of the late leader’s body.

Other members of the delegation include Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Hassan Joho, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, as well as members of the Odinga family, Jaoko Oburu Odinga, Kevin Opiyo Odinga, and Mama Ida Odinga, who will join the team in India.

Ruto also stated that the Indian government has agreed to facilitate the repatriation of Raila’s remains to Kenya.

“At the request of the Government of Kenya, the Government of India has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of Raila. A delegation comprising government officials and family members led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is leaving immediately for India to facilitate proper organisation in the repatriation of the remains of our brother, the Honourable Raila Odinga,” Ruto said.

During his address to the nation, the president also directed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to chair the funeral committee, which will be co-chaired by Raila Odinga’s brother and Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Odinga.

Indian Prime Minister’s tribute

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to his social media platforms to mourn the departed former prime minister.

“He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India. I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat, and our association continued over the years. He had a special affection for India – our culture, values, and ancient wisdom – which was reflected in his efforts to strengthen India–Kenya ties,” Modi stated.