President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday morning led the nation in receiving the body of the late Raila Amolo Odinga at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The two leaders arrived at the airport ahead of the solemn homecoming of the former Prime Minister, whose death in India on Wednesday morning sent shockwaves across the country and beyond.
Ruto, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and senior members of government, was received by a sombre crowd that had gathered to witness the return of one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. Kindiki, who chairs the National Funeral Steering Committee, had arrived earlier to oversee final preparations.
In a symbolic gesture of honour, the Kenya Airways aircraft ferrying Raila’s remains—flight KQ203—flew under a special call sign, RAO001, as it entered Kenyan airspace. The flight touched down at around 9:30 a.m., marking a historic and emotional moment for millions of Kenyans mourning the veteran opposition leader.
Among those present were top government officials, family members, and political leaders from both sides of the divide, including National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.
Flags at JKIA and across the country continued to fly at half-mast in line with the national mourning directive issued by President Ruto.
Security around the airport was tight as thousands of Kenyans gathered along major roads leading to the city to pay their final respects as the motorcade carrying Raila’s body made its way to Lee Funeral Home.
