At least three people lost their lives in the chaos that broke out at Kasarani Stadium as thousands gathered to view the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Nairobi Senator and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has confirmed that his office is in contact with the affected families, promising both emotional and material support.
In a statement released on Wednesday, October 22, Sifuna termed the deaths as “tragic and unnecessary,” calling for compassion and accountability from relevant authorities. “My office is in contact with some of the families who lost their loved ones during Baba’s send-off at Kasarani and Nyayo. Those were needless and unfortunate deaths, most of them due to gunshot wounds,” he said.
Sifuna added that the ODM Party had extended condolences to the bereaved families and was working to reach all those affected by the end of the day. His remarks came after an autopsy report revealed that at least three victims died from bullet wounds, fueling public outrage over the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers during the event.
The chaos erupted on Thursday, October 16, when mourners overwhelmed security at Gate 5 of Kasarani Stadium, leading to gunfire and teargas as police tried to disperse the crowd. Initially, the body viewing was to take place at Parliament Buildings, but the overwhelming turnout forced a shift to a larger venue.
A separate tragedy occurred on Friday at Nyayo Stadium during Raila’s State Funeral, where a stampede claimed two more lives. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that 163 people were treated on-site, with 34 referred to hospitals.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also pledged to assist in the burial arrangements of those who lost their lives, joining calls for justice and support for the grieving families.
