Raila Odinga’s Body Airlifted to Mamboleo Grounds in NIS Chopper for Public Viewing

KISUMU, Kenya — The body of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga was this morning airlifted to the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, aboard a National Intelligence Service (NIS) helicopter, marking a historic and emotional moment in the lakeside city.

The NIS chopper made the short but symbolic flight from Kisumu International Airport, shortly after the arrival of a Kenya Air Force aircraft that had ferried the late opposition leader’s body from Nairobi. The military jet, code-named ENIGMA01 in honour of Raila’s nickname “the political enigma,” touched down at 7:30 a.m. to a solemn reception.

Upon arrival, the flag-draped casket was received by a military guard of honour as top government officials, military officers, and members of the Odinga family stood in silence.

A ceremonial water salute by the Kenya Airports Authority’s fire and rescue unit followed, marking the official commencement of the day’s proceedings.

The NIS chopper, carrying Raila’s remains, lifted off moments later amid chants of “Baba! Baba!” from mourners gathered outside the airport.

It touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo to a sea of humanity—thousands of mourners waving flags, clutching portraits, and singing liberation songs associated with the late leader’s decades-long fight for democracy.

By mid-morning, the stadium was filled to capacity, with crowds spilling over into adjacent roads and open spaces.

Emotional scenes played out as Raila’s casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was carried by uniformed pallbearers to a raised platform where it will lie in state for public viewing throughout the day.

The body of Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga arrives at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Security across Kisumu has been heightened, with multi-agency teams from the Kenya Defence Forces, National Police Service, and county enforcement units stationed at key entry points and around the stadium. Checkpoints and emergency response units have also been established to manage the massive crowds.

Raila’s body will later be transported to his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, where a state funeral is scheduled for Sunday. The event is expected to attract national leaders, foreign dignitaries, and global figures who shared in his political journey.

The mood in Kisumu remains heavy with emotion. Streets across the city are lined with residents holding candles and flowers, many recalling Raila Odinga not just as a politician, but as a father figure and champion of justice.

As Kisumu stands still in mourning, one phrase continues to echo across the city: “Baba has come home.”