By Samuel Ssenono.
The body of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport this morning aboard a Kenya Airways Boeing 737-800, operating as flight KQ203 from Mumbai.
The aircraft departed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at 6:23 a.m. Indian Standard Time and landed in Nairobi at 9:28 a.m. East Africa Time. Upon entering Kenyan airspace, the flight’s call sign was changed to RAO001, a special designation in honour of the late leader. More than 50,000 users tracked the flight live on Flightradar24.
Public Holiday Declared
The Kenyan government has declared Friday, October 17, a public holiday to allow citizens to pay their final respects. A special gazette notice issued on October 16 by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the declaration, noting it is in honour of the former Prime Minister’s contribution to the nation.
Burial Programme
According to the family, Raila Odinga had instructed in his will that he should be buried within 72 hours of his death, a wish the state has committed to honour.
Thursday, October 16
- Arrival of the body in Nairobi at 8:30 a.m.
- Official reception by President Ruto and family members.
- Public viewing at Parliament Buildings from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.
- Transfer to Lee Funeral Home for overnight stay.
Friday, October 17
- State Funeral Service at Nyayo Stadium from 8:00 a.m. with dignitaries and VVIPs expected to attend.
- The body will then be moved to his Karen residence for an overnight stay.
Saturday, October 18
- Departure for Kisumu. Public viewing will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Road transfer to Bondo for an overnight stay.
Sunday, October 19
- Burial in Bondo in accordance with Anglican Church traditions.
