![[PHOTOS] Standing Together: Kenyan leaders join Odinga Family as Raila's body returns home](https://rgk.co.ke/cms/mugera_lock/uploads/2025/10/dbe3164f-277b-4d2b-b33e-c098c42ea9ae.jpg)
A solemn morning at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport saw President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta standing side by side with the family of the late Raila Odinga, as the nation held its breath to welcome home one of Kenya’s most cherished leaders.”
Security at the airport had been heightened earlier, with both police and military personnel ensuring the venue was prepared for the arrival of the Kenya Airways flight carrying Odinga’s remains from India.
Among the first to arrive were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who helped oversee final arrangements before the Head of State arrived at 9:08 am.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki comforts Senator Oburu Odinga at JKIA on October 16, 2025.PHOTO/DPCS
President William Ruto was seen consoling Mama Ida Odinga, while Deputy President Kindiki comforted Oburu Odinga. Other family members, including Raila Odinga Junior, were also present to receive the casket.
Draped in the Kenyan flag, the casket was formally received by President Ruto and Mama Ida Odinga, marking the official homecoming of a leader often described as the father of devolution and a champion of Kenya’s democratic journey. Military honors accompanied the reception, after which the casket was placed on a gun carriage for transfer to Lee Funeral Home under tight security.
Mama Ida Odinga, wife of the late Raila Odinga at JKIA on October 16, 2025.PHOTO/DPCS
A military gun carriage had already been positioned at the airport, attended by members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) military band. Officers meticulously polished the carriage to ensure it gleamed, while the band, dressed in full ceremonial uniform, rehearsed slow, solemn tunes beside the runway. Their discipline highlighted the significance of the occasion as the country paid tribute to the late leader.
President William Ruto, ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki join other leaders at JKIA on October 26, 2025.PHOTO/DPCS
State Officials in a sombre mood at JKIA on October 26, 2025.PHOTO/DPCS
Supporters turned up early at JKIA, wearing shirts and hoodies bearing Odinga’s name or the ODM logo, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for the former Prime Minister. Kenya Airways flight KQ203, carrying the casket, was given the special call sign RAO001 as it entered Kenyan airspace—a rare honor marking Odinga’s final journey home.
The presence of both President Ruto and former President Kenyatta at the reception underscored a shared moment of national unity, as political differences were set aside to honor the departed statesman.