🔗 Share this article

Four individuals perished in Nairobi when armed personnel opened fire and used teargas to scatter massive crowds at a venue where political figure Raila Odinga's body was displayed for homage.

National Leader Remembered

Odinga, who remained a significant presence in the country's governance for many years, died on midweek at age 80 while receiving medical treatment in the subcontinent.

He campaigned vigorously for multi-party democracy, and we experience those rights today because of his work.

Turmoil Unfolds at Venue

Thousands devotees assembled on the streets from early morning, with mayhem occurring when massive group breached a entrance at the city's central arena, prompting military personnel to discharge weapons upward.

• Two people perished from bullets at the venue
• Casualties eventually reached to four people
• Scores of individuals were hurt
• Police used teargas to clear countless grievers

Airport Event and Parliament Situation

Previously that day, thousands of mourners briefly stormed the capital's aviation hub, interrupting a formal proceeding where the head of state and dignitaries were accepting Odinga's remains with formal recognition.

This incident led to a two-hour suspension of flight activities.

Groups also occupied surrounding thoroughfares and sought to penetrate parliament, where the authorities had originally scheduled the open visitation.

Political Impact and Community Backing

Although primarily recognized as an government critic, Odinga served as senior minister in 2008 and also struck a alliance with the leader last year in a public service marked by shifting alliances.

He inspired passionate devotion among supporters, particularly in his cultural background based in western Kenya, many of whom believe he was deprived of the nation's leadership by election irregularities.

Numerous of Odinga's mourners, who were not living in 1991 when Kenya transitioned to a pluralistic political system, expressed respect to Odinga's efforts as an campaigner.