Dozens were injured at the state funeral of Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga as crowds surged to pay their respects in Nairobi.
Nairobi: Dozens of mourners were injured, some seriously, during the state funeral of Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Friday. Crowds at Nyayo Stadium rushed to see his coffin, causing collapses, broken bones, and breathing difficulties. At least five ambulances were deployed to assist the injured.
Odinga, who passed away in India at the age of 80, was widely respected for his decades of activism promoting democracy in Kenya. Thousands attended the Anglican Church service, chanting in the local Luo language, holding portraits, and carrying twigs as a symbol of peace and unity. Heavy security was in place following three deaths during Thursday’s public viewing at a different venue.
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Among the mourners were Odinga's wife Ida, daughters Winnie and Rosemary, and son Raila Odinga Junior. Winnie led chants during the service, while Junior pledged to care for the family. President William Ruto highlighted Odinga's legislative contributions and his selfless leadership, leading attendees in singing Odinga's favourite song, Jamaica Farewell. Anglican Bishop David Kodia urged leaders to emulate Odinga's integrity and shun corruption. Political analyst Herman Manyora described the public's outpouring of love as a reflection of Odinga's lifelong commitment to his people.
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s revered opposition leader and former Prime Minister, died this week in India at the age of 80. Known as a champion of multiparty democracy, he ran for the presidency five times but never secured the office. Odinga’s body lay in state at Parliament, an honour normally reserved for presidents and former presidents, before being moved to Nyayo Stadium for the state funeral.
Thousands of Kenyans attended the funeral service, reflecting Odinga’s lasting influence on political life in the country. Mourners displayed symbols of peace and unity, chanted in the Luo language, and held portraits of Odinga. Heavy security measures were implemented after three people died during a previous public viewing.
The service was attended by family, political leaders, and representatives from African heads of state. Odinga's wife, Ida, and children Winnie, Rosemary, and Raila Odinga Junior participated in the proceedings. President William Ruto praised Odinga's selfless leadership, while Bishop David Kodia encouraged leaders to follow his example. Political analyst Herman Manyora said the mourners’ devotion highlighted Odinga's dedication to democracy and the welfare of Kenyans.
(With AFP inputs)
Published: 17 Oct 2025, 04:48 pm IST
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