Kenya is in deep mourning following the death of opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga, a man whose name has shaped the nation’s political landscape for over four decades. What began as a solemn farewell to a national icon, however, turned tragic on Friday when chaos erupted during his state funeral at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.
Thousands had gathered from all corners of the country — from Kisumu to Mombasa — to pay their last respects. Emotions ran high as political leaders, foreign dignitaries, and global media attended the ceremony.
But just hours into the event, tensions flared.
Witnesses say a section of the crowd became restless as rival political chants filled the air. Police responded with tear gas after some mourners breached barriers meant to control access to the main podium. In the ensuing panic, several people were injured as the crowd tried to flee the smoke.
Despite the incident, the funeral proceeded under heavy security, with President William Ruto leading the nation in paying tribute.
“Raila Odinga was not just an opposition figure — he was a patriot who fought tirelessly for democracy,” said President Ruto.
The late Odinga, 80, reportedly passed away at the Nairobi Hospital after a brief illness. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief across Kenya and the African continent, with flags flying at half-mast for seven days.
Leaders from across the world, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, sent messages of condolence, describing Raila as “a symbol of African democracy and resilience.”
However, the violent turn at his funeral has raised questions about Kenya’s crowd control and political unity in the wake of his death. Analysts warn that the event underscores the fragility of national cohesion, especially as Raila’s ODM party faces an uncertain future without its founding leader.
Security agencies have since launched investigations into the cause of the chaos, with preliminary reports suggesting poor coordination between organizers and law enforcement.
As the nation reflects on Raila Odinga’s enduring impact — from his role in the fight for multiparty democracy to his vision for a united Kenya — many agree that his death marks the end of an era.
The man known as Baba may be gone, but his spirit of resilience and reform remains alive in the hearts of millions.
