Thousands of mourners have packed Kisumu’s Mamboleo Grounds to view the body of the late Raila Odinga in an emotional farewell marked by calm, unity, and tight security. The body will later be taken to Bondo for Sunday’s final burial ceremony.
Kisumu, Kenya, Oct’ 18, 2025 – Thousands of mourners have thronged the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, popularly known as Mamboleo Grounds, in Kisumu to view the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, as the lakeside city turns into a sea of emotion and unity.
The viewing exercise, which began late after brief commotion at the entrance, is now proceeding smoothly under tight security. Authorities are working to ensure the long queues move faster so that everyone can pay their last respects.
There are no speeches from political leaders, with the leaders forced to use local dialect (Dholuo) in addressing the mammoth crowd. The organisers were keen to avoid any remarks that might stir tension or disrupt the solemn mood.
Mourners described Raila as a man who quietly transformed lives — paying school fees for needy children, feeding families, and leading his people with humility.
Beyond his personal generosity, Raila is credited with championing major development projects in the Nyanza region, including the revival of the Kisumu Port, improvement of road infrastructure, and the construction of schools. His recent cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration is also seen as having accelerated development across the region.
Crowds continue to stream in from far and wide, filling the grounds and surrounding areas in a powerful show of love for the man many called “Baba.”
After the viewing exercise, the body will be transported to Bondo later today ahead of Sunday’s final burial ceremony.
