The public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body was moved from Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani after a massive crowd showed up on Thursday October 16, 2025.

The revered opposition leader’s body was flown back to Kenya from India, where he passed away on Wednesday.

Despite heavy security, the sheer numbers of citizens who turned out to witness the arrival of the coffin were staggering.

Crowds breached the VIP gates at JKIA and stormed the State Pavilion, defying barriers and overwhelming police, military, and NYS officers.

The heartrending chants of “Jowi!” echoed across the tarmac as mourners surged forward to catch a glimpse of the casket draped in the Kenyan flag.

Lying in state has the meaning of the body of an important person being put in an official government building for them to receive the honour and last respect in regards to the position they held. Kenya has held public viewings at Parliament for a few prominent figures.

Jomo Kenyatta (1978): Founding President. Daniel arap Moi (2020): Second President of Kenya. Mwai Kibaki (2022): Third President of Kenya. Kijana Wamalwa: Former Vice President. Wangari Maathai: Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. Lucy Kibaki: Former First Lady.

These ceremonies are typically reserved for individuals of national significance and are marked by military honors and public mourning.