Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has pledged to support the families of mourners who were shot during the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The chaotic event, marked by a massive turnout, turned tragic when police opened fire and used tear gas to disperse crowds, resulting in at least three fatalities.
Condemnation and Call for Justice
Sonko condemned the incident as both “unfair and unacceptable,” demanding accountability from law enforcement agencies. “They were innocent mourners going to stand with Baba and his family. It was terrible. These families need justice. Whoever gave the order for the shootings must be held accountable,” he said, criticizing the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for remaining silent amid public outrage.
Sonko’s Support for the Bereaved Families
To aid the affected families, Sonko announced plans to provide legal representation if authorities fail to prosecute those responsible. “We have a strong legal team, and I will hire lawyers on their behalf. There is nobody else standing with them,” he stated, reaffirming his dedication to pursuing justice.
Beyond legal support, Sonko also pledged to cover burial expenses, including coffins, morgue fees, and the transportation of bodies to their respective home regions. “We shall provide everything necessary for proper burials. After the burials, I will personally follow up on the case to ensure accountability,” he added.
Public Reaction and Praise
Sonko’s swift response has been widely praised by Kenyans, many of whom lauded his humanitarian gesture during a time of national grief. Supporters recalled his previous efforts to assist victims of post-election violence and other tragedies, describing his actions as consistent with his long-standing record of community support.
The Kasarani Tragedy
The tragedy unfolded after the venue for Raila Odinga’s public viewing was moved from Parliament to Kasarani to accommodate an unexpectedly large crowd. When mourners breached one of the gates, police reportedly fired tear gas and live bullets in an attempt to control the situation, triggering panic and chaos that led to several deaths and injuries. The event has intensified calls for police reform and improved crowd management during national ceremonies.
Nationwide Tributes Continue
Across Kenya, citizens continue to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy in creative ways. In one instance, Nairobi matatu investor George Ruto transformed his matatu into a mobile tribute, featuring a striking portrait of the late leader—a gesture that resonated widely with the public.
Commitment to Justice
Sonko’s involvement underscores the growing demand for justice and accountability following the Kasarani incident. His initiative to stand with the victims’ families highlights not only compassion but also the broader call for responsible governance and humane crowd control during public events.
