Two Feared Dead During viewing
Tragedy struck on Thursday, October 16, 2025, as at least two people are feared dead and many more injured after security forces clashed with a massive crowd at Kasarani Stadium. The stadium was packed with thousands who had come to pay their respects to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during a public viewing of his body.
Originally, the event was set to take place at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi’s Central Business District, but due to overwhelming attendance, it was moved to the 48,000-seat stadium. Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse when mourners began pushing through barriers, trying to reach the area designated for the coffin.
Live footage from the scene captured the chaos, with crowds pressing against gates and security lines. In response, police and paramilitary forces resorted to firing tear gas and, in some reports, even live ammunition, in an attempt to regain control of the situation.
As the situation unfolded, reports indicated that at least two individuals were feared dead, with several others injured. Some media outlets suggested that the casualty numbers could be higher, as authorities worked to restore order amidst the turmoil.
The public viewing faced a short disruption but soon continued with tight security in place. Government officials confirmed the event and offered limited updates from the scene, assuring everyone that investigations were underway.
The unrest erupted after a large crowd gathered when Odinga’s body was brought to Nairobi, with supporters flocking to the airport and lining the processional routes. Odinga was a monumental figure in Kenyan politics, having served as prime minister and led opposition movements for many years. He passed away in India on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, which triggered a wave of national mourning.
In the wake of the events at Kasarani on Thursday, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi spoke out against the heavy-handed tactics used by police to manage the large crowds during the event.
On his X account, dated October 16, 2025, Amisi expressed his dismay, stating that the authorities marred Raila’s funeral by unleashing teargas on the mourners who had come to Kasarani Stadium to pay their final respects to their leader.
”Police have officially spoiled Baba’s funeral. This is not proper. Can’t we reason through situations before actions? Shooting live bullets in a mammoth crowd in a stadium is simply stupid,” Amisi said.
Two Feared Dead During viewing
