The lake-side city of Kisumu on Saturday, October 18 witnessed a historic and emotional event as thousands of mourners gathered at Mamboleo Stadium to bid farewell to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The late leader’s body was airlifted to Kisumu International Airport earlier in the morning, the military plane receiving a water salute before being transported via a National Intelligence Service (NIS) helicopter to the grounds for public viewing.
The Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium within the Mamboleo complex has a capacity of 25,000 and was full to the brink by early morning.
The atmosphere was deeply emotional, with supporters singing, dancing, and holding placards bearing Raila’s image and slogans.
Emotions ran high as mourners paid their respects. Notably, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was seen breaking down in tears upon the arrival of Raila’s body at Mamboleo Stadium, reflecting the deep sorrow felt by many.
In response to previous incidents at Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, where stampedes resulted in fatalities and injuries, authorities implemented stringent security measures at Mamboleo. Multiple checkpoints were established at all entry and exit points to ensure the safety of attendees.
Initially, the public viewing was scheduled to take place at Moi Stadium. However, due to logistical reasons and to accommodate the expected large turnout, the venue was changed to Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo.
“This is the final opportunity for Kenyans to see their leader and pay tribute,” said Maj. Gen. Nyagah, overseeing the proceedings at Mamboleo. The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party announced that the viewing would be solemn, with no speeches allowed, to ensure order and safety.
Key political figures from Kisumu and the surrounding region were present, notably Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o and Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, and Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, reflecting the high-level attendance and national significance of the event.
The public viewings of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body have already set a historic precedent in Kenya, marked by events that distinguish them from previous state funerals.
From Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi to Kasarani Stadium, and now Mamboleo in Kisumu, the former Prime Minister’s viewings have drawn exceptionally large crowds, reflecting the immense respect and influence he commanded across the nation.
While public viewings have previously been held for former Presidents Mwai Kibaki and Daniel arap Moi, the intensity of the crowds, the emotional depth of mourners, and the scale of the events for Raila Odinga are unparalleled in modern Kenyan history. The former Prime Minister’s passing has left a profound mark on the nation, both in political and social terms.
