Police officers had a difficult time controlling the massive crowd that turned up at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, to view the body of the late Raila Odinga.
What began as two orderly queues quickly turned chaotic as the number of mourners swelled, forcing the creation of a third line.
Thousands of locals from different parts of the country had thronged the stadium by early morning, all determined to pay their last respects to the late opposition leader.
At one point, police officers and event marshals had to plead with the crowd to sit down on the terraces and open field areas to ease pressure at the viewing point.
Officers on horses had to get in between the two lines to control the residents, even as viewing continued.
Emotions ran high as mourners pushed forward to catch a glimpse of Raila’s body, which lay in state draped in the national flag.
The scorching sun and long waiting hours took a toll on many, with some mourners fainting during the process.
Medics stationed at the stadium quickly attended to those who fell ill, providing first aid and refreshments.
Security teams formed human barricades to manage movement as the viewing continued amid songs, tears, and chants of “Baba! Baba!” filling the air.
The turnout was far beyond expectations, reflecting the deep affection and respect many hold for the late Raila, a man considered a symbol of democracy and reform in Kenya.
Despite the challenges, the viewing process continued peacefully under tight security as thousands more continued to stream into the stadium.
