What was meant to be a solemn moment of national mourning for the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga turned chaotic on Thursday afternoon as thousands of emotional supporters clashed with police at Kasarani Stadium, where his body was lying in state for public viewing.

The incident unfolded just after 3:00 p.m., when the massive crowd many draped in orange clothing and waving flags associated with Raila’s long political career attempted to push their way into the VIP section, where the body of the opposition leader was being displayed. The area, restricted to dignitaries, government officials, and family members, was heavily guarded by police and private security officers.

Crowd Impatience Sparks Violence

According to witnesses, tensions began to rise as queues outside the stadium grew longer. Some mourners claimed they had been waiting since early morning without gaining access to view the body. The scorching afternoon heat and limited communication from the organizers further fueled frustration.

“The people were tired and emotional,” said Mercy Achieng, a mourner from Kibera who had travelled overnight to attend. “We came to say goodbye to our leader, but the police were pushing us back as if we are criminals.”

Moments later, the restless crowd surged forward, breaking through metal barriers and hurling plastic chairs and stones at security officers stationed near the VIP gate. The guards, overwhelmed and outnumbered, called for reinforcement as chaos erupted within the stands.

Police Respond With Teargas and Warning Shots

In an attempt to disperse the swelling crowd, police fired several warning shots in the air before lobbing teargas canisters. Thick plumes of smoke quickly filled the stadium, sending mourners scattering in panic. Women and children were seen coughing and crying as they fled to safety. Some fainted and had to be assisted by volunteers and medical personnel.

“We were just standing when the teargas exploded near us,” recalled Peter Otieno, a trader from Mathare. “People started running everywhere. It was so hard to breathe. I saw old men falling down, others being trampled.”

At least two people were seriously injured, according to eyewitnesses, and were treated by members of the National Youth Service (NYS) who were deployed to assist emergency responders. Several others sustained minor injuries as they scrambled through the exits amid the stampede.

Authorities Struggle to Maintain Order

Police later managed to regain control of the situation, sealing off access points to the main arena. However, the incident raised concerns over the government’s crowd management plan for Raila’s ongoing public memorials.

A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted that the turnout at Kasarani had far exceeded expectations. “We anticipated a big crowd, but this was beyond our capacity. People came from every corner of the country,” he said. “We had to act fast to prevent further damage or loss of life.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior appealed for calm, urging mourners to respect the security arrangements and follow official instructions during the viewing sessions.

Nation in Mourning

Raila Odinga’s death has plunged Kenya into deep grief. The 80-year-old former Prime Minister, often referred to as “Baba” by his supporters, passed away earlier this week while receiving treatment in Nairobi. His body was returned to the country from South Africa on Wednesday amid emotional scenes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where thousands had gathered to receive it.

Similar chaos had been reported at Parliament Buildings, forcing authorities to relocate the public viewing to Kasarani Stadium, which has a larger capacity. Despite the shift, the overwhelming turnout demonstrated the immense popularity and political influence Raila wielded across generations.

A Legacy That Still Moves Crowds

For over four decades, Raila Odinga dominated Kenya’s political landscape leading opposition movements, advocating for multiparty democracy, and contesting several presidential elections. His supporters view him as a symbol of resilience, democracy, and the unfinished struggle for justice.

“He fought for our freedom. Even in death, people still believe in his vision,” said George Mwangi, a youth leader from Nakuru. “That’s why emotions are so high. Everyone wants to get close to him one last time.”

Calls for Calm and Respect

Religious leaders and political figures have urged Kenyans to honor Raila’s memory peacefully. Bishop David Oginde of Christ Is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) appealed for unity, noting that violence only tarnishes the spirit of national mourning. “Raila stood for dialogue and justice. Let us mourn him with dignity,” he said.

In a brief statement, Inspector General Japhet Koome confirmed that investigations were underway to determine what triggered the chaos and whether security lapses contributed to the incident. He promised that the public viewing would resume under tighter control once safety was guaranteed.

Funeral Arrangements Continue

The National Funeral Steering Committee, chaired by government and family representatives, announced that additional viewing centers would be opened in Kisumu, Kakamega, and Mombasa to accommodate mourners unable to access Kasarani. The final funeral ceremony is expected to take place next week at Uhuru Gardens, followed by burial at Raila’s ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.

As evening fell, teargas still lingered in the air around Kasarani Stadium, and police maintained a heavy presence to deter further unrest. Despite the chaos, thousands of Kenyans vowed to return the following day, determined to pay their final respects to the man many called the father of the nation’s second liberation.

“Even if they block us again, we will come,” said Achieng, her voice hoarse from the gas. “We owe him that much.”