The Kenya Times continues the live coverage of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s final send-off.
On Friday, the nation bid farewell to the opposition leader during a solemn State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, attended by President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and dignitaries from across Africa.
On Saturday, Raila’s remains are being airlifted to Kisumu for a public viewing at the Mamboleo Grounds before the final journey to his Bondo home.
9:44 a.m. – Body Viewing Underway
Public viewing of the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is now underway at the Mamboleo Grounds in Kisumu.
One by one, mourners are filing past the flag-draped casket, some breaking into tears while others bow in silent respect.
9:35 a.m. – Mourner Arrested
Security officers have arrested a mourner who breached a restricted area within the Mamboleo Stadium, where the body of the late Raila Odinga lies in state.
The individual reportedly attempted to move closer to the main dais, prompting a swift response from security personnel.
Officers quickly restrained and escorted the mourner away from the area as the crowd watched.
Despite the brief disruption, the mood at the stadium remains calm, with proceedings continuing under tight security.
9:20 a.m. – Huge Crowds March Toward Mamboleo Stadium
Thousands of mourners are streaming toward Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga lies in state for viewing.
Many are walking from as far as Kondele, Nyalenda, and the city center, determined to pay their last respects.
9:00 a.m. – Body Removed from the Chopper
The casket bearing the remains of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been carefully removed from the Kenya Air Force helicopter at the Mamboleo Grounds.
Military pallbearers, clad in full ceremonial uniform, lifted the flag-draped casket as the crowd watched in solemn silence.
Tears, chants, and songs filled the air as thousands of mourners strained to capture the moment.
The ceremony at Mamboleo now marks the beginning of the public viewing, where Kenyans will pay their final respects to the man many called Baba.
8:46 a.m. – Body Arrives at Mamboleo Grounds
The Kenya Air Force helicopter carrying the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has landed at the Mamboleo Grounds in Kisumu.
The stadium is flooded with thousands of Kenyans.
Security remains tight, with military and police officers forming a perimeter around the landing zone.
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Religious leaders, family members, and ODM officials are expected to lead the brief ceremony before the public viewing begins.
8:08 a.m. – Body Airlifted
The body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been airlifted from Kisumu International Airport to the Mamboleo Grounds for public viewing.
8:02 a.m. – Raila’s Body Off-loaded
The casket bearing the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been officially unloaded from the Kenya Air Force aircraft at Kisumu International Airport.
A military honor guard, dressed in ceremonial attire, carried the flag-draped casket down the ramp in a solemn procession.
The convoy is now expected to begin its slow procession through the streets of Kisumu toward Mamboleo Grounds, where thousands await to pay their last respects.
7:50 a.m. – Kondele, Kisumu Situation
Kenyans have flooded the streets of Kisumu, lining the route from the airport through Kondele as Raila Odinga’s cortege makes its way to the Mamboleo Grounds for public viewing.
Also Read: Rift Valley MPs Donate 80 Bulls to Honour Raila Odinga
Security has been heightened across the city, with police and military officers deployed to ensure safety and maintain order along the route.
7:20 a.m. – Raila Odinga’s Body Arrives in Kisumu
The military aircraft carrying the casket bearing the remains of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has landed at Kisumu International Airport.
The Kenya Air Force jet was met with a ceremonial water salute as it taxied to the arrival bay.
Security remains tight as the body is prepared for transfer to the Mamboleo Grounds, where thousands have already gathered for public viewing.
More to follow…
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