“I Was Angry on That Plane” — Edwin Sifuna Reveals Inside Drama of Raila Odinga’s Return from Mumbai

The days following the death of opposition leader Raila Odinga were marked by national mourning, but behind the scenes, tensions and frustrations ran high, according to ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

Speaking publicly about the ordeal, Sifuna described last-minute changes, confusion, and a sense of exclusion surrounding the delegation tasked with bringing Odinga’s body back from Mumbai. 

He revealed that he had not originally been included in the travel plans, noting that the list of travelers seemed heavily weighted toward government officials. 

It was only after one scheduled delegate withdrew for health reasons that Sifuna boarded the flight.

“I was angry on that plane,” Sifuna admitted, scanning the cabin and realizing the limited presence of Odinga’s closest political allies. 

For a leader whose influence shaped decades of opposition politics, Sifuna felt that the farewell journey should have prominently featured long-serving comrades.

Frustration continued after the plane touched down in Kenya. While Odinga’s casket received full state honors, including police outriders and ceremonial processions, Sifuna questioned why similar recognition had not always accompanied the opposition leader’s political efforts during his lifetime.

The situation was further complicated when ODM’s symbolic party colors were reportedly not allowed to drape the coffin during ceremonies at Nyayo Stadium. 

Sifuna viewed the omission as more than a ceremonial matter — it struck at the very identity and legacy of Odinga’s decades-long struggle in opposition politics.

Reflecting on the experience in a social media post, Sifuna acknowledged the emotional toll but emphasized that disagreements over protocol could not diminish Odinga’s enduring legacy. 

He stressed that the loyalty of supporters and the memory of shared struggles would ultimately define how the late leader is remembered.

Political analysts note that Sifuna’s revelations shed light on the delicate balance between state protocol, party symbolism, and personal loyalty during national mourning, highlighting the behind-the-scenes complexities that often accompany the passing of influential political figures.

As the country continues to commemorate Odinga’s life, Sifuna’s account serves as a reminder of both the political and emotional challenges faced by those tasked with honoring his legacy while navigating the sensitivities of public ceremony and state involvement.