Chaos Erupts in Mamboleo
Police officers are facing a tough challenge as they try to manage the growing crowds at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, where the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga is lying in state for the public to pay their respects.
Things took a turn for the worse mid-morning when thousands of mourners surged toward the main podium where the casket was displayed.
This led to a brief stampede, causing several mourners to collapse in the chaos.
Emergency response teams and paramedics quickly sprang into action, providing first aid and swiftly evacuating the injured from the overcrowded area of the stadium.
Those who were hurt were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Police officers are facing a tough challenge as they try to manage the overwhelming crowds at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, where the body of former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga is lying in state. Officers on horseback have been strategically positioned around the inner perimeter of the stadium to help disperse the throng and restore some semblance of order.
Despite their best efforts, the sheer number of people made it hard to keep things under control.
Security forces, including members of the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police, and the Kenya Defence Forces, have been on high alert since early morning as tens of thousands of mourners continue to pour into the venue. Entry points are heavily guarded, and screening procedures are still in effect.
Organizers and security personnel have urged mourners to stay calm and patient as they wait in line to pay their final respects to the late leader during the public viewing.
Things took a chaotic turn mid-morning when a surge of mourners pushed toward the main podium where the casket was placed.
This commotion resulted in a brief stampede, causing several mourners to collapse.
Emergency response teams and paramedics quickly sprang into action, providing first aid and swiftly evacuating the injured from the crowded area of the stadium.
Those who were hurt were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The public address system has been making announcements, urging everyone to keep the peace and exit promptly after paying their respects to the body, so others can have their turn.
There are strict rules in place around the casket, including a ban on taking photos or videos with mobile phones.
Officers are positioned near the podium to make sure everyone follows these guidelines.
Even with the emotional intensity of the moment, the atmosphere in the stadium is one of reflection and sorrow. Mourners are singing hymns, liberation songs, and chants that honor Raila’s lifelong dedication to justice and democracy.
As they pass by the casket draped in the national flag, some people are waving small flags, tree branches, and portraits of the beloved leader.
The public viewing is part of the national mourning ceremonies honoring Raila Odinga, who sadly passed away earlier this week.
As per the official schedule, the viewing at Kisumu stadium will go on until late afternoon, after which his body will be taken to his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, for burial on Sunday.
Security teams are on standby to keep everything in order as thousands of Kenyans gather in Kisumu to pay their respects to the man many affectionately refer to as Baba.
Chaos Erupts in Mamboleo
