Tens of thousands of mourners fled on Thursday at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi after security forces opened fire to disperse crowds gathered to view the coffin of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The incident unfolded during the public viewing of Odinga’s body, which was repatriated from India following his death on Wednesday at the age of 80. AFP journalists at the scene reported seeing at least three people injured, with one lying motionless amid bloodshed.
Odinga, popularly called “Baba”, was a top figure in Kenyan politics. Despite five failed presidential bids, he was revered for championing democratic reforms over decades marked by imprisonment and exile during autocratic rule.
Initial crowds gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where the influx forced a temporary suspension of flight operations. Authorities rerouted the planned viewing from Parliament to Kasarani Stadium after supporters overwhelmed the gates. Tension escalated at the stadium with crowds until security forces used gunfire and teargas to disperse them, causing panic and scramble for safety. Witnesses filmed officers beating some mourners with sticks as many tried to escape.
Presidential candidate Martha Karua condemned the police for using teargas and ammunition to disperse mourners.
Calm was restored later, allowing crowds to return to pay homage.
President William Ruto, who arrived shortly, paid his respects alongside family members and officials. President Ruto declared seven days of national mourning, with a state funeral scheduled for Friday in Nairobi.
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