Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has thanked the Indian government, the Indian High Commission in Nairobi, Kenya Airways and the Kenya Defence Forces for their roles in facilitating the transportation of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s remains.
In a statement posted on X, Sifuna expressed gratitude to the institutions and individuals who made the journey possible under difficult circumstances, recalling flights KQ 202 and KQ 203 between Nairobi and Mumbai on October 15 and 16, 2025.
Sifuna singled out the Indian High Commission in Nairobi and the Indian government, saying he could not establish how many international travel regulations had been adjusted to facilitate the flight.
He also praised Kenya Airways management and the flight crew led by Captain Saviemaria Ondego, describing their conduct as exemplary.
Sifuna recalled an emotional moment during the return journey when the aircraft received the call sign RAO001 upon entering Kenyan airspace.
“On the way back we thought our tears had dried then she hit us with that call change to RAO001 when we entered our airspace,” Sifuna wrote, adding that the moment was deeply moving.
The senator also apologised to passengers who travelled on the two flights, acknowledging that some were bumped off their bookings and that extensive seat changes and delays, particularly on flight KQ 202, disrupted their travel plans.
He said many passengers only learnt what was happening after the aircraft was airborne and the captain made an announcement.
Sifuna thanked the affected passengers for their understanding and graciousness despite the inconvenience.
He further expressed gratitude to the Kenya Defence Forces for the honour extended to Odinga, saying those who stood with the former prime minister would remain grateful.
“For the honour extended to Baba, we his people will forever be grateful. Salute,” he said.
Sifuna concluded his message by thanking all those who helped make the arrangements possible, describing the experience as emotionally difficult while acknowledging the support received during the journey.
