The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has been airlifted from Kisumu to his rural home in Bondo due to time constraints, marking the final leg of his farewell journey.

The public viewing at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, ended at around 3 pm after thousands of mourners streamed in since morning to pay their last respects. Security officers from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and General Service Unit (GSU) maintained order as emotional scenes unfolded inside the stadium.

Also Watch: President William Ruto views the body of the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Kasarani Stadium

Raila’s body arrived in Kisumu at 8:30am aboard a military aircraft before the KDF prepared for the short flight to Bondo, where he will be buried on Sunday. The decision to airlift the body, instead of transporting it by road, was made to manage time and logistics ahead of the burial ceremony.

Ruth regrets change of plan

However, Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, expressed regret over the change of plan. Speaking at the family’s Opoda Farm in Bondo, she said many supporters had hoped to see the motorcade carrying Raila’s body from Kisumu to Siaya.

“I wish they could have put him on the road instead of the chopper up to here. How we walked with Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. We walked from Nairobi to Kisumu with him. I wish they had done the same with Raila,” she stated.

Also Watch: Raila Amolo Odinga’s body ready for viewing

Despite her disappointment, Ruth noted that the adjustment would not stop Kenyans from travelling to Bondo to pay their final respects.

“The roads are full, people are coming, and they will be here,” she added.

By Saturday afternoon, large crowds had already gathered at Opoda Farm as leaders from across the political divide arrived to condole with the Odinga family. Cultural groups from different regions performed traditional songs and dances to honour Raila’s memory.

COTU (K) also confirmed that its Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, was travelling to Bondo to comfort the family. The organisation dismissed social media reports claiming Atwoli was ill, describing them as false and unfortunate.

Raila’s burial will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Opoda Farm, Bondo, in a ceremony expected to draw national and international dignitaries.