The body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has been officially cleared by Indian authorities for repatriation to Kenya, following his sudden demise in Kerala on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
Preparations are currently underway in Kerala, where Odinga took his last breath, with activity intensifying as officials coordinate the transfer of his remains. The Indian High Commissioner has taken a personal role in facilitating the process, overseeing the release of the body from Kerala to Mumbai, where it will be handed over to a Kenyan government delegation.
The late statesman’s body has been placed in a brown coffin, now ready for transportation. Indian dignitaries paid their final respects, laying wreaths on the casket in a solemn tribute to Odinga’s legacy.
The remains are expected to arrive in Kenya on the morning of Thursday, October 16, 2025.
President William Ruto earlier confirmed that the Government of India had expressed unwavering support in ensuring the prompt return of Odinga’s body to Kenya.
“The Government of India, at the request of the Government of Kenya, has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of the former Prime Minister,” said President Ruto.
A high-level Kenyan delegation, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi, has already departed for India to oversee the repatriation process.
Repatriation Delegation
Other prominent officials accompanying the delegation include Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, among others.
“A delegation comprising government officials and family members led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is leaving immediately for India to facilitate proper organisation in the repatriation of the remains of our brother Raila Odinga,” the president announced.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and pledged his country’s support in ensuring a swift and respectful repatriation.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr Raila Odinga. He was a towering statesman and a cherished friend of India,” Modi stated.
“I had the privilege of knowing him closely since my days as Chief Minister of Gujarat. He had a profound appreciation for India’s culture and values, and worked to deepen the ties between our two nations.”
As Kenya prepares to receive one of its most iconic political figures, tributes continue to pour in from across the globe, celebrating Raila Odinga’s lifelong dedication to democracy, justice, and pan-African solidarity.
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