The Passing of a Kenyan Political Icon
Kenya is in deep sorrow following the passing of Raila Odinga, one of the most influential figures in the country’s political landscape. He passed away on Wednesday, October 15, at Devamatha Hospital in Southern India. Raila suffered a cardiac arrest while on his morning walk, leading to his immediate admission to the hospital.
The attending specialist cardiologist noted that Raila’s heart had stopped beating upon arrival. Medical teams initiated resuscitative measures, including intubation, CPR, placement of an IVC filter to check for blood clots, and administration of thrombolytic drugs. Despite these efforts, Raila succumbed to his condition, ending an 80-year life marked by over three decades of political influence in Kenya.
A Journey Home
Raila’s body was transported back to Kenya on the RAO001 flight. It arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) just after 9:30 am on Thursday, October 16. A delegation of 30 individuals, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, accompanied the body from India.
A somber atmosphere enveloped the airport as President William Ruto awaited the arrival of Raila’s remains. Supporters of Raila, who had gathered outside the airport, overwhelmed security barriers, breaching the VIP gates to reach the runway. Some even crowded around the aircraft carrying the body. General Charles Kahariri, Chief of Defence Forces, attempted to manage the situation, eventually calming the crowd and allowing the body to be wheeled out of the plane.
Emergency Response and Public Reaction
The Ministry of Health deployed 36 ambulances for emergency support during the reception of Raila’s body. Each ambulance was equipped with Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) facilities, staffed by a paramedic, nurse, and driver. These units were provided by various organizations, including the Kenya Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, Nairobi Disaster Service, Nairobi Emergency Services, and Kenyatta National Hospital.
Mourners filled the roads in Nairobi city center, vowing to carry Raila’s body back. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who had served as Raila’s deputy in the ODM party, was among the dignitaries present. His emotional response was captured in a low-quality video, showing his deep grief.
Airport Closure and Security Measures
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) temporarily suspended aviation services at JKIA due to the large number of mourners accessing restricted areas. KCAA Director General Emile Arao stated that the closure was a precautionary measure to restore order and ensure safety. Normal operations were expected to resume within two hours.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga urged calm among supporters, promising them an opportunity to view Raila’s body at Parliament Buildings. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also appealed for patience, emphasizing the need for the family to grieve.
Changing Venue and Continued Chaos
Despite initial plans for the body to lie in repose at Parliament Buildings, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga announced a change to Kasarani Stadium due to security concerns. However, the public was not immediately informed, leading to confusion and continued unrest.
Members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) struggled to contain the crowds, who refused to follow protocols. A video captured a mourner kneeling on the coffin draped in the national flag, weeping as KDF officers watched. While the officers maintained a close watch, they allowed the moment to pass.
Thousands of mourners arrived at Kasarani Stadium ahead of the public viewing. Police faced challenges controlling the crowd, which included people running across the pitch and riding motorcycles. The police initially used rubber bullets and later teargas to disperse the crowd, resulting in at least two deaths from gunshots.
Final Farewell
The body of Raila Odinga was finally placed at Kasarani Stadium, where thousands gathered to pay their respects. The coffin, draped in the national flag, was carried into the stadium by KDF officers. President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Mama Ida Odinga were the first to view the body.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino addressed the impatient crowd, assuring them of their chance to see Raila. Despite the chaos, the final farewell took place, marking the end of a significant chapter in Kenyan history. 
