Post by : Rameen Ariff

A tragic stampede during Raila Odinga’s funeral in Kenya resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to dozens on Friday. Thousands of mourners flocked to Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi to honor the late opposition leader, affectionately known as “Baba” - a father figure in Kenyan politics and a staunch advocate for freedom.

Emergency responders from Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported treating over 163 people for injuries, with 34 requiring hospitalization. “The majority of injuries were related to blunt trauma and fractures, with the unfortunate loss of two lives confirmed during the stampede at Raila Odinga’s funeral,” the organization stated.

A Nation United in Grief

This tragic incident unfolded just two days after Odinga’s death in India, where the 80-year-old succumbed to what is believed to be a heart attack. His passing has led to widespread mourning across Kenya, with tens of thousands gathering to honor a man whose life was dedicated to the cause of democracy and justice.

Before the stampede, President William Ruto addressed the crowd, describing Odinga as “a champion for change and justice, who dedicated his life to a better Kenya.” The otherwise peaceful ceremony turned into chaos when mourners surged towards the coffin, overwhelming security forces.

Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes as individuals were trapped and injured. “I saw people collapse amid the chaos, with others calling for assistance. It was horrifying,” recalled one survivor of the stampede at Raila Odinga’s funeral.

Events Preceding the Funeral

The stampede followed a deadly confrontation just a day prior, during which security forces opened fire on a gathering of mourners, resulting in three fatalities. Rights organizations, including VOCAL Africa, denounced what they termed “excessive force against grieving individuals.”

Families of the victims criticized the shootings as unjustifiable. “There was no disorder, yet he was shot,” lamented Vincent Otieno Ogutu, whose brother-in-law was among the deceased. Images from the morgue revealed bullet wounds on the victims.

Human rights activist Hussein Khalid from VOCAL Africa called for restraint from law enforcement in light of both the shootings and the stampede at Raila Odinga’s funeral, emphasizing, “We wish to avoid further fatalities associated with this tragedy.”

The Legacy of Raila Odinga

The stampede has added to the sorrow engulfing the nation. Odinga served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and was a crucial player in advocating for multi-party democracy during the 1990s, contributing to the 2010 constitution that marked a pivotal moment in Kenya’s democratic journey.

His supporters hailed him as “the father of liberty” and “the people's voice.” One mourner, Paul Oloo, stated, “My right to speak freely stems from Raila. He was my father figure; his influence is why I stand here today.”

The chaos at Raila Odinga’s funeral highlights the immense affection and respect the Kenyan people hold for their late leader, whose passing has left a significant political and emotional vacuum.

Continuing the Funeral Procession

Despite the tragic events, the funeral procession will continue, with Odinga’s body set to be transported to his native western Kenya for further ceremonies this weekend. Authorities anticipate even larger crowds of Kenyans flocking in from various regions to say their goodbyes.

His private burial is planned for Sunday, symbolizing the conclusion of a significant political chapter. Questions regarding the future of Kenya’s opposition movement have emerged, with little clarity on who can carry on his legacy.

Honoring a National Icon

For countless Kenyans, the stampede at Raila Odinga’s funeral serves as a powerful reminder of national solidarity and the complexities involved in managing widespread mourning. While his death unites the nation in sorrow, it also reveals the fragile line between devotion and chaos.

Even in his passing, Raila Odinga continues to resonate within Kenya’s political and emotional landscape, a testament to his enduring commitment to justice, equality, and freedom.

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