Kenya bid a somber welcome to the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died unexpectedly yesterday in India at age 80. The Kenya Airways flight carrying his remains touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) around 9:30 a.m., greeted by thousands of mourners in a scene blending grief and reverence. Delegation members, including family and dignitaries, disembarked first, followed by the casket draped in the Kenyan flag, marking the end of an era for the man dubbed “Baba wa Taifa” (Father of the Nation).

Chaos briefly ensued at the airport as supporters surged forward, chanting Raila’s signature slogans and waving ODM colors, a testament to his enduring popularity. Security forces managed the crowd as the procession moved to Lee Funeral Home for preparation. Public viewing is scheduled for Friday at Parliament Buildings from noon to 5 p.m., allowing Kenyans to pay respects to the five-time presidential aspirant who shaped the country’s multiparty democracy.

Raila, who was in India with daughter Winnie and sister Ruth for medical consultations, passed away from complications related to a long-standing ailment. President William Ruto declared a seven-day mourning period, with a state funeral set for Sunday at Raila’s rural home in Bondo, Siaya County. The event will honor his roles as Prime Minister (2008-2013) and African Union envoy, drawing regional leaders. As his body returns home, Raila’s journey from Kisumu’s shores to global stages closes, leaving a void filled with tributes to his fight for justice and unity.