Chaos at Raila Odinga Memorial in Kisumu as Dozens Injured Amid Massive Crowds
Kenya’s western city of Kisumu witnessed chaos and injuries on Saturday as thousands of mourners gathered to pay their final respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The tragic incidents came despite heightened security measures following deadly disruptions at earlier memorial events held on Thursday and Friday.
According to local media reports, dozens of people were injured at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium as mourners surged forward to view Odinga’s body, which was being transported through Kisumu to his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County. The mass turnout reflected the deep affection and respect Kenyans hold for the revered statesman, who passed away on Wednesday while on a trip to Kerala, India.
Crowd Surge Leads to Injuries Despite Heavy Security
Authorities had deployed police officers, military units, and aerial surveillance in anticipation of massive crowds. Despite these precautions, the event descended into disorder as mourners pushed through security barriers in a desperate attempt to get closer to Odinga’s coffin.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and exhaustion as hundreds of people fainted from fatigue, distress, and overcrowding. The Kenya Red Cross said its teams treated several injured mourners and evacuated others who required urgent medical attention.
“We did our best to manage the flow of people, but the crowd was overwhelming,” said one emergency responder. “Many had been waiting for hours under the sun without food or water.”
A Nation in Mourning
Raila Odinga, aged 80, was one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, often hailed as the “people’s president” for his decades-long struggle for democracy, good governance, and social justice. His sudden death during a morning walk in India sent shockwaves across Kenya and the African continent, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from leaders and citizens alike.
As Odinga’s body made its journey from Nairobi to Kisumu, tens of thousands of mourners lined the streets, waving flags, singing liberation songs, and chanting his name. Many described him as a “father figure” and “voice of the oppressed.”
“He fought for our freedom and democracy,” said Mary Atieno, a Kisumu resident who attended the memorial. “We had to come and say goodbye to our hero, even if it meant standing for hours.”
Authorities Appeal for Calm
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o commended Odinga’s lifelong dedication to Kenya and urged citizens to remain calm during the mourning period.
“Thousands have thronged Jomo Kenyatta Stadium-Mamboleo to pay their last respects to Baba [Odinga]. Let us honor his memory with peace, dignity, and respect,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Siaya County Governor James Orengo also appealed to the public to maintain order as Odinga’s body was moved to his ancestral home in Bondo, located roughly 60 kilometers (40 miles) west of Kisumu.
“I really entreat members of the public and the community in general to maintain the peace during this period,” Orengo told reporters. “We are working closely with authorities to ensure everything proceeds smoothly and safely.”
Deadly Incidents Earlier in the Week
Saturday’s injuries followed two days of deadly unrest during previous public viewings. On Thursday, at least three people were killed and several others injured when security forces fired tear gas and live bullets to control a surging crowd at a stadium in Nairobi.
The chaos erupted when thousands tried to push toward the pavilion where Odinga’s coffin was displayed. Panic spread as people ran for cover amid the tear gas and gunfire. Eyewitnesses reported seeing police struggle to contain the crowd, while others accused authorities of excessive force.
Friday’s memorial procession in Kisumu also turned violent, leaving at least two people dead and several injured in stampedes and scuffles with police. Those incidents prompted the government to step up security for Saturday’s viewing and to call for restraint ahead of Odinga’s final burial.
Massive Turnout in Kisumu
Despite the risks, the turnout in Kisumu on Saturday was enormous. Streets were lined with mourners waving national flags and carrying banners honoring Odinga’s political legacy. Many wore T-shirts bearing his portrait and the slogan “Forever in our hearts.”
Businesses across Kisumu closed early, and transport routes were gridlocked as thousands of people walked long distances to reach the stadium. Local authorities estimated that more than 50,000 mourners gathered across the city throughout the day.
Volunteers and Red Cross teams worked tirelessly to assist the injured and distribute water. Emergency tents were set up outside the stadium to treat those affected by heat and exhaustion.
Raila Odinga’s Legacy
Born in 1945, Raila Odinga was a pivotal figure in Kenya’s fight for multiparty democracy. He spent years imprisoned under former President Daniel arap Moi’s regime and later became a central figure in opposition politics.
Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 under a power-sharing agreement following the disputed 2007 elections. Throughout his career, he was celebrated for advocating democratic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and social equality.
Even in his later years, Odinga remained a powerful voice in Kenyan politics. His enduring popularity, particularly in western Kenya, made him a unifying figure for many citizens who viewed him as a symbol of resistance and resilience.
Preparations for Sunday’s Burial
Odinga’s body will be laid to rest on Sunday at his ancestral home in Bondo, where thousands are expected to attend. Religious leaders, government officials, and international dignitaries are expected to participate in the funeral service.
Authorities say they have tightened security along the procession route to prevent further incidents. Additional police units and medical response teams have been deployed, with officials urging mourners to cooperate and remain orderly.
A Farewell to a National Icon
As Kenya prepares to bid farewell to Raila Odinga, emotions remain raw across the country. From Nairobi to Kisumu and Bondo, thousands continue to gather in remembrance of a leader who spent his life fighting for justice and unity.
“Kenya has lost one of its greatest sons,” said Governor Nyong’o. “His vision for a better, more equal nation will continue to inspire generations to come.”
For many Kenyans, this final journey is not just a farewell — it is a powerful moment of reflection on the legacy of a man whose courage and sacrifice helped shape modern Kenya.