Four Killed at Raila Odinga's Public Viewing in Nairobi

At least four people have been killed and several injured as Kenyan security forces fired live rounds and tear gas to disperse a large crowd at the public viewing of the deceased opposition leader, Raila Odinga, at Nairobi's Kasarani Stadium. The incident has sparked chaos and panic amongst the tens of thousands of mourners who had gathered to pay their respects.

A Tribute Turns Chaotic

Raila Odinga, a significant figure in Kenyan politics for decades, died at the age of 80 in India, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His body was returned to Kenya on a Kenya Airways flight and was lying in state for public viewing at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

However, the event turned chaotic as security forces attempted to control the crowd, firing live rounds in the air and tear gas, causing a panic movement. As per Deutsche Welle and Al Jazeera English, the security forces' response resulted in at least four deaths and several injuries.

Diverging Reports on Deaths

While most sources including The Guardian, The Hindu, South China Morning Post, and AllAfrica.com reported four fatalities, Le Monde and some reports in AllAfrica.com mentioned three deaths.

Regardless of the number discrepancy, it is clear that the situation turned tragic with the loss of lives. At least three people were shot dead and several others injured on Thursday when police opened fire during chaotic scenes at Kasarani Stadium, reported Capital FM via AllAfrica.com.

Extended Public Viewing and State Funeral

Amidst the chaos, the Kenyan government announced an extension of the public viewing period to accommodate the growing number of mourners. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who chairs the National State Funeral Committee for the late former Prime Minister, announced this in a bid to allow Kenyans to pay their last respects.

Following the public viewing, Odinga's body was moved to Parliament ahead of his State Funeral, scheduled to be held on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium.

Conclusion

The unfortunate incident has marred the mourning period for a respected opposition figure, known for his political resilience. Odinga, who had run for presidency five times unsuccessfully and was once a political prisoner, leaves a significant void in Kenyan politics. Investigations into the circumstances leading to the firing and subsequent deaths are anticipated, as Kenya mourns the loss of a political stalwart.