The unexpected death of veteran Kenyan opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga sparked an unprecedented outpouring of public emotion, culminating in thousands of mourners storming Nairobi’s international airport as his body arrived, a powerful testament to his enduring legacy.
On Thursday, Kenya witnessed an extraordinary display of national grief and devotion as thousands of mourners converged on Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). They gathered to receive the body of Raila Odinga, the revered veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, who passed away in India at the age of 80. The planned solemn ceremony quickly dissolved into a chaotic yet profound tribute, underscoring Odinga’s monumental impact on Kenyan politics and society.
The Unprecedented Scene at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
The intensity of public emotion overwhelmed even the most stringent security measures. Despite the presence of military, police, and National Youth Service officers, thousands of supporters breached security barriers, chanting “Baba has arrived” as the chartered flight carrying Odinga’s remains landed. This spontaneous surge onto the tarmac interrupted the official ceremony, where President William Ruto and other dignitaries had gathered to offer military honors.
Mourners, some waving twigs and flags, others on motorbikes, flooded the airside, forcing airport operations to be suspended for two hours. The chaos was such that even Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri was caught in the throng, according to Reuters. While a tight security cordon eventually formed around the casket, allowing its transfer to a hearse, the scene at JKIA vividly demonstrated Odinga’s profound connection with the masses.
Raila Odinga: A Life Dedicated to Democracy
Born into a prominent political family, Raila Odinga was much more than a politician; he was an embodiment of Kenya’s struggle for democracy. His career spanned decades, marked by both periods of political imprisonment and significant leadership roles. He ran for president unsuccessfully five times, a testament to his persistent pursuit of the nation’s highest office, which many of his supporters believe he was cheated out of due to electoral fraud.
Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, a period following the post-election violence of 2007, when he formed a power-sharing government. His political journey was characterized by shifting alliances, including a recent pact with President William Ruto. Despite these complexities, he consistently championed multi-party democracy and commanded passionate devotion, particularly among his Luo tribe in western Kenya, earning him the affectionate nickname “Baba” (father in Swahili).
A mourner, speaking to the BBC, articulated this deep sentiment: “I came here at six in the morning to welcome Baba. We are sad; we have been left as orphans. He is our father.” Such expressions underscore the personal and profound connection many Kenyans felt towards him, viewing him as a champion who fought tirelessly for the freedoms they enjoy today.
The National Mourning and Funeral Arrangements
President William Ruto declared a seven-day period of national mourning following Odinga’s death. He announced that Odinga would be accorded a state funeral with full military honors, reflecting his stature as a significant national figure. Initially, a public viewing of his body was scheduled at the parliament building, but due to the unexpectedly large turnout and the overwhelming crowds, the venue was changed to the Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi to accommodate more people.
The funeral proceedings are meticulously planned to allow broad public participation:
- On Friday, a state funeral will be held at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
- On Saturday, Odinga’s body will be transported to Kisumu, his political stronghold in western Kenya, for a public viewing.
- The final burial will take place on Sunday at his farm in Bondo, approximately 60 km west of Kisumu, fulfilling his wish to be interred within 72 hours of his passing.
Throughout these days, the government has mobilized 36 ambulances and medical teams, anticipating massive turnouts and ensuring emergency services are available for the mourners.
The Enduring Legacy of Baba
The overwhelming and at times chaotic scenes at JKIA and along the procession routes are a stark reminder of Raila Odinga’s immense influence on Kenya. His death has not merely marked the end of a political era but has ignited an outpouring of collective memory and appreciation for his fight for justice and democracy.
For many, Odinga was a symbol of hope and resistance, a voice for the marginalized, and a figure who, despite numerous setbacks, never ceased advocating for a more equitable Kenya. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the country’s political discourse and inspire future generations of activists and leaders. The national mourning is not just for a departed leader, but for the ideals he represented, which remain deeply embedded in the hearts of millions of Kenyans.
