Kasarani, Kenya — A moment intended for collective remembrance turned tragic Thursday as chaos erupted during the public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body at Kasarani Stadium. Authorities reported at least two fatalities amid confrontations between police and thousands of mourners, with potential for that number to rise as investigations continue.
One of the deceased has been identified as Vincent Otieno Ogutu, 40, who leave behind a wife and three daughters. Emotional images circulating on social media reveal the profound human toll of the day’s events, including a heart-wrenching scene of a father grieving over his son’s body, underscoring the personal loss felt by many who came merely to pay their respects.
The chaos began shortly after 3:00 p.m. when eager supporters surged toward the VIP area holding Odinga’s body, frustrated by lengthy wait times and security measures. In an attempt to control the crowd, police responded with tear gas and live rounds, igniting panic as mourners scrambled for safety, engulfed by clouds of tear gas.
Internal Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen witnessed a disturbing episode where one body was extracted from the stadium. Security personnel formed barriers around the area before the remains were eventually taken away, reflecting the chaotic response to the already overwhelming gathering of supporters.
The initial venue for the viewing was relocated from Parliament Buildings to the stadium to accommodate a larger crowd, but even the increased capacity proved insufficient. Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi criticized the police’s heavy-handed approach, suggesting their actions marred the tribute to Odinga, a beloved political figure among many.
Mourners expressed disbelief and anger regarding the day’s events. One attendee lamented, “We came to honor our leader, but instead, we faced brutality.” Such sentiments were echoed by various lawmakers and members of civil society, who questioned the necessity and appropriateness of the police response.
This incident followed a prior security breach at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where crowds overwhelmed the tarmac to catch sight of Odinga’s casket upon arrival from India. The disruption underscored the widespread adoration for Odinga, who passed away at 80 after suffering cardiac arrest while receiving treatment abroad.
President William Ruto declared a week of national mourning and announced full military honors for Odinga’s funeral, acknowledging the leader’s significant contributions to Kenyan politics over four decades. His death sparked an outpouring of grief, particularly among supporters of his Orange Democratic Movement, who reverently referred to him as “Baba,” meaning father in Swahili.
As the day progressed, medical teams from Kenya Red Cross tended to numerous individuals affected by the turmoil, treating those injured in the stampede or suffering from tear gas inhalation. Despite the medical response, questions loomed about the effectiveness of crowd control strategies employed during such pivotal events.
By Thursday evening, top political figures including President Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta attended the viewing, but the earlier violence had already overshadowed the proceedings. Authorities pledged more stringent security measures moving forward, yet many remain skeptical about whether meaningful lessons will be learned.
The tragedy has ignited a national conversation regarding the use of force in managing civilian gatherings, with human rights advocates calling for thorough investigations into the day’s fatalities. As plans for the official state funeral on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium and burial on Sunday in Odinga’s hometown of Bondo advance, the haunting reality of loss persists for families now mourning not only a national leader but also their own loved ones caught in a catastrophic breach of safety.