Nairobi, Kenya — A day intended for national mourning turned disastrous at Kasarani Stadium as police clashed with mourners during public tributes for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The chaotic scene, which unfolded Thursday afternoon, led to the firing of live rounds and tear gas, resulting in multiple fatalities among those trying to pay their last respects.
Authorities confirmed the deaths of at least two individuals amid confrontations, though reports suggest that the casualty count may be higher. The exact number remained uncertain as investigations were still ongoing. Among the deceased was Vincent Otieno Ogutu, 40, who left behind a grieving family, including a wife and three daughters. A heart-wrenching video circulating online showed a father, identified as Meshack Okode, weeping over his son’s lifeless body, emphasizing the personal tragedy within this national crisis.
The turmoil erupted shortly after 3 p.m. as thousands of supporters became agitated by long waits and security measures restricting access to Odinga’s body, which was being prepared for viewing at the Moi International Sports Centre. The atmosphere rapidly shifted from somber gathering to panic when supporters surged toward the VIP area.
In response, law enforcement deployed tear gas and fired upon the crowd, with some reports indicating that live ammunition was used. This aggressive reaction sparked a stampede as mourners scrambled for safety, engulfed in clouds of tear gas that obscured the view at the stadium.
Visibly shaken by the events, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen observed as officers removed a body from the chaos, with National Youth Service personnel forming a barrier around it to shield it from onlookers. The subsequent handling of casualties has drawn serious concerns about the security protocols in place for such a significant public event.
The chaotic scenes at Kasarani followed a prior security lapse at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where supporters breached barriers when Odinga’s casket arrived from India. Operations were briefly suspended as thousands surged toward the runway, eager for a glimpse of their revered leader.
Odinga, who passed away at 80, had been a prominent figure in Kenya’s politics for over four decades. His death was announced by President William Ruto, who declared seven days of national mourning and announced that Odinga would receive a state funeral with full military honors. As news of his passing swept through the nation, emotions ran high, particularly among his loyal supporters in the Orange Democratic Movement, who affectionately referred to him as “Baba,” meaning father in Swahili.
Lawmakers, including Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, criticized police for employing excessive force. “They’ve spoiled Raila’s funeral by lobbing tear gas at mourners,” he said, echoing a sentiment shared by many at the scene, who expressed indignation over the violent intervention during what was meant to be a dignified tribute.
Witnesses recounted feelings of shock and outrage. One mourner lamented, “This is not what Baba would have wanted. They’ve stripped him of his final honors.” Amid the applause of a once solemn gathering, the tragic events of the day overshadowed the official ceremonies.
Medical teams, including those from the Kenya Red Cross, worked tirelessly to assist those affected by the events, treating individuals suffering from injuries and inhalation of tear gas. Although authorities promised enhanced security for the remaining ceremonies, skepticism remains regarding the lessons learned from Thursday’s chaos.
As plans for Odinga’s state funeral on Friday and burial on Sunday approach, families impacted by the tragedy grapple with their losses amid a national outpouring of grief. The terrible events at Kasarani serve as a painful reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with large public gatherings, raising urgent questions about the management of crowd control in the future. For the families mourning their loved ones, the tragedy remains a heartbreak that enhanced security measures cannot amend.