Honouring Raila Odinga: Mombasa residents hold peaceful procession

Hundreds of ODM supporters on Thursday took to the streets of Mombasa in a peaceful procession to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away in India at the age of 80 while receiving treatment.

On Wednesday, shortly after news of his death broke, only a few supporters were seen in the streets despite Mombasa being one of Raila’s traditional strongholds.

However, by Thursday morning, ODM officials had mobilised supporters who gathered at Mwembe Tayari before marching through the streets of Mombasa.

The procession, led by party officials, wound its way through Jomo Kenyatta Avenue, Digo Road, and Nkrumah Road, with supporters dancing to ODM and Luo songs while waving twigs and placards.

Some business owners briefly closed their shops, fearing possible unrest, but the supporters maintained peace and order throughout the event.

At the Mombasa County Assembly building, the crowd broke into song and dance, praising Raila’s leadership and legacy before a few local youth leaders addressed them.

Former nominated MCA Moses Aran, popularly known as Civiliser, said Raila had a deep love for the Coast region, describing it as his political bedroom.

“We will continue mourning Raila until Sunday, when he is laid to rest. We shall not rest until Baba is put to rest,” said Aran.

After speeches and songs, the group proceeded to Mapembeni along Moi Avenue, where the event concluded peacefully.

Raila’s death is expected to significantly reshape the political landscape of the Coast region. While ODM still commands a strong following, its influence has declined in recent years.