Tragedy struck again during the state funeral of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium after a stampede claimed two lives and left several others injured. The incident occurred as mourners surged forward to view the body, moments after dignitaries had left the venue.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, emergency response teams were immediately deployed to assist the injured. “It was a challenging day for our teams at Nyayo Stadium, responding to a stampede that left many in need of urgent care,” the humanitarian organization said. “Our responders continue to provide first aid, psychosocial support, and assist with medical evacuations alongside emergency partners.”
The stampede followed another chaotic scene a day earlier, on October 16, at Kasarani Stadium, where hundreds had gathered for the public viewing of Odinga’s body. Reports indicated that the crowd became unruly after security officers began clearing the venue, leading to a sudden rush toward the exits. Some mourners allegedly began throwing stones, forcing police to intervene with tear gas to restore order.
Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga confirmed that approximately 100 people were treated for injuries sustained during the Kasarani chaos. “We would like to request Kenyans to keep calm and maintain order. We are all mourning; we should maintain peace,” Oluga urged.
During the Nyayo ceremony, Raila Odinga’s family including his widow Ida Odinga, daughters Winnie and Rosemary, and brother Oburu Odinga stood solemnly beside the casket as the national farewell unfolded.
Authorities have urged mourners to remain orderly during the ongoing funeral events to prevent further tragedy as the nation continues to mourn one of its most influential political figures.
