Thousands of Kenyans have filled Nairobi’s Central Business District to witness the arrival of the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

The crowd lined up along major streets leading to Parliament Buildings, where Raila’s body will lie in state for public viewing.

Many mourners started arriving in the CBD as early as 4 am on Thursday.

The Kenya Airways flight carrying his remains touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 9:33 am on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The plane, which had earlier changed its call sign from KQ203 to RAO001 in his honour, was greeted with a historic water salute by the airport authorities.

President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led the delegation that received the body.

The coffin, draped in the national flag, was carried from the aircraft by a military honour guard. It was then placed on a ceremonial vehicle for the short journey to Lee Funeral Home.

From early morning, crowds began gathering near Parliament Buildings, ready to view the body of the man they fondly called Baba. By 9 am, the lines had already stretched to the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Parliament prepares final farewell

Military personnel and government protocol teams arranged the reception area. Lawyer Willis Otieno, speaking to journalists, ealier said Raila’s legacy could not be measured by titles.

“Raila was beyond the presidency. He became the symbol of Kenya’s conscience,” he said.

The atmosphere in Nairobi remained calm but emotional.

The government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday in honour of Raila’s life and contribution to Kenya.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the day would allow the nation to reflect and pay tribute to a man who shaped its democratic path.

A State Funeral Service will take place at Nyayo Stadium on Friday from 8 am. President Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and several African heads of state are expected to attend. An overnight vigil will then follow at Raila’s Karen residence, where family and close friends will gather in prayer.

On Saturday, the body will be flown to Kisumu, where it will lie in state at Moi Stadium before being driven to Bondo, Siaya County. The burial will take place on Sunday.