Kenyan Security Forces Open Fire on Mourners at Raila Odinga Memorial, Several Killed

At least four people were killed and dozens injured after Kenyan security forces opened fire and used tear gas to disperse crowds gathered at Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium during the public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body. The violence erupted as thousands of mourners thronged the venue to pay their final respects to the veteran opposition leader, whose death last week in India sparked a wave of grief across the nation.

Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as police and soldiers attempted to control the swelling crowds that surged toward the gates, breaking through security barriers. Gunfire was heard during a live broadcast of the ceremony on the presidential YouTube channel, shocking viewers nationwide. Emergency services and the Red Cross confirmed that several people were critically injured, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties.

Authorities claimed the confrontation began when a section of the crowd tried to storm restricted areas, prompting officers to fire in the air. However, videos shared on social media appeared to show officers shooting directly into the crowd, raising concerns about excessive use of force.

Earlier in the day, thousands had gathered at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to receive Odinga’s body, with mourners breaking past police barricades and briefly disrupting airport operations.

Odinga, aged 80, was a towering figure in Kenyan politics, known for his decades-long struggle for democracy and his five unsuccessful presidential bids. He served as the country’s prime minister from 2008 to 2013 and remained a symbol of reform and opposition resilience.

The government has declared a period of national mourning and announced plans for a state funeral. Meanwhile, human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into the security forces’ handling of the crowd, condemning the violence at what was meant to be a peaceful national farewell.