By;Emmanuel Kyengo
Kenya is in deep mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80.
On Thursday morning, Raila’s body arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and was later taken to the Parliament Buildings, where Members of Parliament dressed in black gathered to pay their last respects.
The atmosphere was solemn as leaders from across the political divide paid glowing tributes, describing him as a fearless defender of justice, democracy, and human rights.
In the afternoon, the body was moved to Kasarani Stadium for public viewing.
Thousands of Kenyans filled the venue, waving flags, singing freedom songs, and mourning the man they fondly called “Baba.” Some mourners broke through security barriers in emotional scenes, while others wept quietly, reflecting on his lifelong struggle for democracy and equality.
President William Ruto has gazetted Friday as a national public holiday in honor of Raila’s life and service to the nation. Flags across the country are flying at half-mast as Kenyans unite in grief.
Raila Odinga will be laid to rest on Sunday at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County.
“He was human — he felt our pain and spoke our truth. No one can ever replace that kind of love and leadership,” said Mourice Ochieng ,a mourner in Kisumu.
Throughout his career, Raila Odinga was known for his unwavering commitment to democracy and unity.
In one of his memorable remarks, he once said, “We don’t shake hands because we agree, but because we need to move forward as a country.”
Many mourners carried portraits of Raila and wore T-shirts printed with his image, calling him “a hero of the people” and “a symbol of true democracy.”
