Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka was overcome with emotion at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Friday, October 17, 2025, as he joined Kenyans in mourning the late Raila Amolo Odinga, his long-time political ally and close friend.
In a video shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kalonzo was seen wiping away tears with a white handkerchief while surrounded by senior Wiper Party officials. The somber scene captured the depth of his grief as the nation continued to process the loss of the iconic former Prime Minister.
Later, Kalonzo took to social media to express his condolences, describing Raila as a pillar of courage, unity, and justice.
“I was joined by the leadership of @TheWiperParty this morning at JKIA, Nairobi. These are truly heavy days for our nation. As we gather to celebrate Raila’s remarkable life, we will find solace in his spirit of courage, unity, and justice,” he wrote.
The Wiper Party Secretariat had earlier confirmed that Kalonzo had cancelled his UK trip to return to Kenya following news of Raila’s passing. According to the statement, he departed from Heathrow International Airport in London on Thursday evening, cutting short his international engagements to be part of the national mourning period.
Welcoming Dignitaries to Raila’s State Funeral
Upon his arrival, Kalonzo also welcomed foreign dignitaries from Tanzania who had flown into Nairobi to attend Raila Odinga’s state funeral.
In another post on X, the Wiper leader confirmed that he had received former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Vice President Philip Mpango at JKIA.
“This morning at JKIA, I had the honour of welcoming former President of Tanzania, H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, and the Vice President, H.E. 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 shared.
He went on to reflect on the deep personal bond he shared with the late Odinga, calling him “more than a political ally” and praising his continental influence that extended well beyond Kenya’s borders.
“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,” Kalonzo added.
Raila Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Kerala, India, where he had been receiving treatment. His passing has united the nation in mourning and drawn heartfelt tributes from across Africa, celebrating a life dedicated to democracy, justice, and freedom.
