Preparations for the third day of national mourning for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga are complete, with his body scheduled to be airlifted to Kisumu on Saturday morning.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, co-chair of the National Funeral Committee, confirmed that the Kenya Defence Forces will transport the remains to Mamboleo Grounds for public viewing.
Speaking from his official residence in Karen, where he was joined by co-chair Oburu Odinga and other committee members, Kindiki thanked Parliament for hosting Raila’s body earlier on Friday.
The arrangement allowed legislators to pay their final respects before the casket was moved to Nyayo National Stadium for public viewing.
“We are pleased with what has happened in the afternoon — the public viewing, which saw thousands of mourners pay respect to Raila. That exercise has continued and ended peacefully, solemnly, and with utmost dignity, notwithstanding there were thousands at the stadium,” Kindiki said.
He described the second day of mourning as “a success,” adding that the nation now enters the third day with renewed resolve and unity.
“It is heavy, but we must do everything to protect the image of our fallen leader and the image of Kenya,” he said.
Kindiki advised members of the public attending the Kisumu event to be seated by 7 am. He added that public viewing at Mamboleo will continue for most of the day “until we are satisfied everyone has had a chance.”
Later, the body will be taken to Bondo for an overnight stay ahead of Sunday’s burial. The final day’s programme will be released on Saturday evening through a media notice.
“We are relocating to Kisumu and Siaya, working overnight in readiness for tomorrow,” Kindiki said, praising committee members for their dedication. “Thanks to my colleagues—they are doing a great job and are responsible for some of the gains we are making.”
Interior PS Raymond Omollo also confirmed that all preparations for Saturday’s public viewing in Kisumu have been finalised. He assured residents that county and national officials have coordinated to ensure smooth arrangements, security, and order during the solemn exercise.
Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium on Friday, Omollo said the body is expected to arrive at Mamboleo by 8 am, urging the public to start arriving from 7 am.
“The viewing will take place here at the stadium. We expect the body to arrive by 8 a.m., and the public should start streaming in by 7 a.m. There will be no speeches, only a short prayer by the clergy before the viewing begins,” he said.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, who hosted the briefing, called on residents to maintain peace and decorum during the viewing, describing the occasion as a solemn moment of reflection and respect.
“Tomorrow is not a day for celebration or merrymaking; it is a mourning occasion,” Nyong’o said.