🔗 Share this article

A quartet of persons perished in Nairobi when security forces shot and used teargas to break up huge gatherings at a sports arena where political figure Raila Odinga's remains was displayed for homage.

National Figure Mourned

The statesman, who was a prominent player in Kenyan politics for decades, passed away on midweek at age 80 while undergoing healthcare in the subcontinent.

He struggled relentlessly for democratic systems, and we are enjoying those rights today because of his work.

Turmoil Breaks Out at Venue

Thousands supporters gathered on the streets from early morning, with chaos erupting when enormous throng forced open a gate at the capital's primary venue, leading to military personnel to fire in the air.

• Two people perished from bullets at the stadium
• Casualties subsequently increased to four people
• Many persons sustained injuries
• Law enforcement deployed chemical agents to disperse numerous mourners

Aviation Hub Disruption and Parliament Situation

Previously that day, countless of grievers briefly stormed the city's air terminal, halting a official event where the head of state and dignitaries were welcoming Odinga's body with armed forces tribute.

This incident prompted a temporary halt of flight activities.

Assemblies also flooded nearby roads and attempted to breach parliament, where the administration had initially planned the community homage.

National Impact and Ethnic Support

Although primarily recognized as an opposition figure, Odinga became prime minister in 2008 and also established a alliance with Ruto last year in a political journey marked by evolving coalitions.

He commanded strong loyalty among adherents, particularly in his ethnic group based in the country's west, many of whom maintain he was denied the highest office by vote manipulation.

Countless of Odinga's followers, who were not living in 1991 when Kenya established itself as a pluralistic political system, offered homage to Odinga's efforts as an activist.