There was grief and sorrow at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi on Thursday morning as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrived from India, where he passed away on Wednesday.
The plane carrying his remains touched down at JKIA at 9.36 a.m. On board were his spouse, Mama Ida Odinga, family members, including their daughter Winnie, who was carrying her father’s trademark hat, several Cabinet Secretaries, and other government officials led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
It was an emotional moment as the casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was solemnly removed from the Kenya Airways flight KQ203, which was renamed RAO001 upon entering Kenyan airspace in his honour.
Large crowds of mourners, some carrying twigs and palm branches as a public display of grief, gathered at the airport. Amid songs, chants, and cries invoking his many monikers, many were visibly overcome with grief.
President William Ruto, who will receive the body of ODM party leader, has accorded him a state reception, including a guard of honour. The cortege from JKIA will proceed to Lee Funeral Home before being moved to Parliament Buildings for public viewing at midday.
High-ranking government officials, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and other national leaders are among the dignitaries who have converged at JKIA.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has mobilised 36 ambulances to provide emergency medical coverage.
More to follow………….
