Security officers resorted to kicking mourners out of Kasarani, beating some who had gathered at Kasarani
Stadium in an attempt to disperse the swelling crowd.
The confrontation escalated just minutes after police lobbed teargas into
the crowd, triggering panic and confusion.
Despite the heavy police presence and use of force, mourners continued to
throng the stadium grounds, determined to pay their final respects to former
Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The body of the late leader arrived at the venue shortly after the fracas
began, intensifying emotions among the gathered supporters.
Scenes of chaos unfolded as crowds scattered across the stadium, some
choking from the teargas, others running for safety.
The atmosphere remained tense, with mourners expressing frustration over the
aggressive tactics used by law enforcement.
By noon, mourners had begun streaming into the stadium, many waving twigs, symbols
of grief rooted in Luo tradition.
Supporters sang liberation songs and chanted Raila’s name, transforming
Kasarani into a sea of voices and green.
Shortly before 3pm, the body of Raila arrived at the stadium under heavy
escort.
Security presence remain high into the night, with officers stationed around
the stadium and major roads.
The viewing was initially schedule to take place at the Parliament buildings
but changed after huge and impatient supporters turned out.
Soon after it was officially announced that the public viewing will now take
place at Kasarani, supporters who had gathered around the city centre and
parliament changed course.
“Due to the surging number of mourners, the viewing of the body of HE Hon.
Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from Parliament buildings to Moi
International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“Members of the public are advised to proceed to Kasarani where they shall
have enough space and time to view the body,” ODM Director of Communications
Philip Etale announced.
Raila’s body arrived on Thursday morning from India, where died following a
cardiac arrest.
He was receiving treatment at the time of his death.
Draped in the Kenyan flag, the casket was received by President William Ruto
and Mama Ida Odinga, as the nation welcomed home the remains of the man widely
regarded as the father of devolution and a pillar of democratic struggle.
The body was received with military honours before being placed on the gun carriage for transport to Lee Funeral Home under tight security.
