KISUMU, KENYA — Thousands of mourners filled the streets of Kisumu on Friday as the nation continued to grieve the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, a man whose influence shaped decades of Kenya’s political history.
However, what began as an emotional outpouring of grief quickly turned tense. Heavy security was deployed throughout the city as police sought to manage surging crowds at the public memorial. Several incidents of chaos were reported, including stampedes and clashes near the main entrance of the Kisumu Stadium, where Odinga’s body was expected to lie in state.
Eyewitnesses said officers fired tear gas to control the crowd after a section of mourners broke through barricades, attempting to reach the main platform.
“People came to celebrate Baba’s life, not to fight,” said Mary Atieno, a local resident. “But the security was too tight — emotions were high.”
Kenya Red Cross officials later confirmed that dozens were injured in the commotion, with several hospitalized for minor injuries and shock.
Despite the tension, national and international leaders continued to send tributes. President William Ruto described Raila as “a giant of democracy whose courage transformed Kenya’s political landscape.” Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo called him “Africa’s steadfast voice for justice.”
A Nation Reflects on a Fallen Icon
Raila Odinga’s passing has united Kenyans across political and ethnic lines. In Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, candlelight vigils and prayer sessions have been held in his memory. Many recall his tireless advocacy for multiparty democracy, constitutional reform, and human rights, often at great personal risk.
Born in 1945, Raila’s career spanned over four decades — from imprisonment under the Moi regime to nearly winning the presidency multiple times. His reformist spirit and fiery rhetoric made him both admired and controversial, yet undeniably central to Kenya’s political identity.
As the nation prepares for his burial later this month, discussions have already begun about who will inherit his political mantle within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Party insiders suggest that a transition plan will be announced soon, with younger leaders expected to step forward.
“Raila Odinga may have left us, but his fight for a just Kenya continues,” said Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o. “We owe it to him to keep that dream alive.”
