Sifuna Thanks India and KDF for Raila’s Final Journey
In a statement posted on X on October 16, 2026, Sifuna recalled travelling with the Kenyan delegation to Mumbai a year earlier. The journey followed the announcement of Raila’s death in India on October 15, 2025.
Sifuna revealed that he had kept his boarding passes for Kenya Airways flights KQ202 and KQ203. He described the experience as one of the most difficult periods of his life.
“I couldn’t tell you what the toughest part of the day was, receiving the news in the morning or taking that flight to Mumbai,” he wrote. His recollection highlighted the emotional burden faced by members of the delegation during the urgent trip.
Indian Officials Helped Facilitate the Trip
Sifuna thanked the Indian High Commission in Nairobi and the Indian government for helping the delegation travel to Mumbai. He acknowledged their support in facilitating arrangements during an exceptionally difficult period.
The senator suggested that officials may have needed to make extraordinary arrangements to ensure the journey proceeded. However, he did not specify which international travel requirements, if any, were adjusted.
“I don’t know how many rules of international travel were bent to make that flight happen. Ahsante sana,” Sifuna said. His remarks underscored the role of diplomatic cooperation in responding to the death of a prominent foreign dignitary.
Raila died in India while receiving medical attention, prompting grief across Kenya. Authorities and the family subsequently arranged for his body to be returned home for a national farewell.
RAO001 Call Sign Moved Delegation to Tears
Sifuna praised Kenya Airways management and the crew who handled the flights carrying the delegation. He particularly recognised Captain Saviemaria Ondego for her role in the journey.
One moment stood out during the return flight when the aircraft received the call sign RAO001 upon entering Kenyan airspace. The designation referenced Raila’s initials as his body returned to the country.
“Bwana, 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. Wacha tu. God bless,” Sifuna wrote.
The senator described the announcement as an emotional moment during an already painful journey. For the delegation, the return flight represented more than ordinary travel because it carried Raila’s body back to his homeland.
Raila spent decades shaping Kenya’s opposition politics, multiparty democracy and constitutional reform debates. His death marked a significant moment in the country’s political history and prompted widespread tributes.
Senator Apologises for Disrupted Flights
Sifuna also addressed passengers whose travel plans were affected by the arrangements. He apologised for the inconvenience and thanked travellers for their understanding.
According to his statement, some passengers were removed from flights while others had their seats changed to accommodate members of the delegation. He also acknowledged lengthy delays, particularly involving flight KQ202.
Sifuna said some passengers only learnt about the circumstances after boarding, when the captain made an announcement. He recognised that travellers had faced disruptions without necessarily knowing the reasons behind the changes.
“Apologies for the inconveniences on that day, but you were very gracious. God bless,” he said. His message acknowledged the cooperation required from ordinary passengers during an unusual and emotionally charged operation.
The account highlighted the logistical challenges airlines can face when urgent travel arrangements arise unexpectedly. It also recognised the inconvenience experienced by travellers whose journeys were affected.
KDF Receives Special Recognition
Sifuna separately thanked the Kenya Defence Forces for the honours accorded to Raila during his final journey. He said the former Prime Minister’s supporters would remain grateful for the gesture.
“The KDF. Bwana, for the honour extended to Baba, we, his people, will forever be grateful. Salute,” he wrote.
Although Sifuna did not outline the specific military arrangements, his statement conveyed appreciation for the role played by the armed forces. He also reflected the deep attachment Raila’s supporters continue to feel towards the circumstances of his final journey.
His tribute brought together gratitude for diplomatic assistance, airline cooperation and military honours. It also offered a personal recollection of the difficult journey that followed Raila’s death in India.
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