NAIROBI, Kenya — The public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body was tragically marred by chaos and violence at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
At least three people reportedly died and several others sustained injuries after security personnel struggled to contain the thousands of Kenyans gathered to pay their last respects to the veteran opposition leader.
The mayhem erupted when immense crowds surged toward the Presidential Pavilion entrance. Security forces, attempting to control the surging numbers of mourners, resorted to firing shots into the air.
What was intended as a day of solemn farewell quickly spiralled into a deadly confrontation after officers opened fire and deployed tear gas on the crowd, which had grown restless after long hours of waiting for the arrival of the former Premier’s body.
Vivid Voice News confirmed that at least three bodies were lying lifeless inside and around the Kasarani Stadium perimeter following the chaos, though the total number of lives claimed remains unclear.
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Despite urgent, last-minute efforts by government officials, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, to rein in the deployed officers, video footage captured police recklessly lobbing tear gas canisters at mourners seated in the stands.
This action appeared to only exacerbate the volatile situation, triggering widespread panic and sending people fleeing in disarray.
The tragic scenes at Kasarani underscored the profound emotional weight of Odinga’s death for millions of Kenyans who viewed him as a vital symbol of democracy and reform.
Despite the tragedy and the risks, thousands of mourners continued to hold out hope for a final glimpse of the revered leader.
