Wayne Lumbasi
At least three people were killed and several others injured after police opened fire to disperse mourners at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi, where thousands had gathered to view the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The stadium, filled to capacity with supporters, was meant to host a peaceful memorial ceremony for the late opposition leader, whose death in India earlier this week has plunged the nation into mourning.
However, tensions flared when sections of the crowd tried to force their way into the VIP section ahead of the arrival of Odinga’s body. In response, police officers fired live bullets and lobbed teargas canisters to control the swelling crowd, sparking panic and a deadly stampede.
Police confirmed the deaths, while human rights groups condemned the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians, calling for an independent investigation.
The violence has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a solemn farewell to one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, raising renewed questions about police accountability and the government’s handling of public gatherings during times of national grief.
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