Former President of Tanzania Jakaya Kikwete and Tanzanian Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango have arrived in Kenya to pay their last respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
They were received early Friday morning at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by former Kenyan Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka.
“This morning at JKIA, I had the honour of welcoming former President of Tanzania, H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, and the Vice President, H.E. Dr. Philip Mpango, who came to Nairobi to pay their last respects to their dear brother and friend, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH. Their presence shows just how deeply Raila’s life touched people beyond our borders,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper Party leader described Raila’s passing as a deeply personal loss, saying, “These are truly heavy days for me and for our nation. I have lost more than a political ally; I have lost a brother and a friend. We walked together through moments of struggle, hope, and belief in a better Kenya. As we gather to celebrate his life, I find strength in the values he stood for. Raila’s spirit of courage, unity, and justice must continue to guide us forward.”
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has arrived at Parliament Buildings, where the body of the former Prime Minister lies in State. He was received by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto.
President Ruto viewed the body and paid his final respects to the late ODM leader, who is being accorded full state honours.
Raila’s body is expected to be moved to Nyayo National Stadium later in the morning for the State Funeral Service. The procession from Parliament will begin once all dignitaries, including the President, have arrived.
Several world and regional leaders are expected to attend the service, which is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and continue until noon.
By early morning, large crowds of mourners had already begun gathering at Nyayo Stadium to witness the historic ceremony. Security has been heightened at the stadium and along major roads leading to the venue to ensure smooth proceedings.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
