Ida Odinga: I appeal to our people, let’s mourn Raila in peace
By Ascah Mwango, October 18, 2025Mama Ida Odinga has appealed for calm and dignity as thousands gathered at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu for the final public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking on Saturday, October 18, 2025, she urged mourners to treat the occasion as a moment of reflection and respect, reminding Kenyans that the day was about honouring Raila’s life and legacy, not causing confusion or chaos.
Also Watch: Funeral committee cancels plan for Raila’s body to stay at Karen home
“I appeal to our people that we must mourn Raila Odinga in peace. It’s a solemn occasion and not an occasion of confusion. Things work better if we solemnly do things,” Ida expressed.
She also announced that she has received many condolence messages from many parts of the world, and she hopes to read them in due time
Her appeal came amid growing concern over multiple incidents of disorder and injuries that have marred the week-long mourning period since Raila’s death. Large crowds have consistently overwhelmed security arrangements, leading to stampedes, clashes, and fatalities in several locations across the country.
Chaos
Trouble erupted at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) when Raila’s body arrived from South Africa. Emotional supporters broke through security cordons in an attempt to catch a glimpse of the hearse, disrupting airport operations. Police were forced to intervene as mourners surged onto restricted sections of the tarmac, creating a tense standoff that lasted for several minutes before order was restored.
Also Watch: Mombasa governor weeps uncontrollably at JKIA as Raila’s body arrives
In Nairobi, the first major disruption was witnessed outside Parliament Buildings, where Raila’s body was to lie in state for public viewing. Thousands of mourners flooded Parliament Road and adjacent streets, making it impossible for security officers to maintain order. The situation grew tense as people pushed against police barriers, forcing authorities to divert the procession to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
However, the chaos continued at Kasarani where an uncontrollable surge of mourners led to a deadly stampede. Videos showed scenes of panic as people rushed toward the gates to view the body. Several individuals were trampled, and security forces reportedly fired tear gas and live rounds in the air to disperse the crowd. Multiple casualties were confirmed, and hospitals across Nairobi treated dozens of injured mourners for crush injuries, exhaustion, and fainting.
During the state funeral held at Nyayo Stadium the following day, another stampede occurred as mourners rushed toward the field after the departure of dignitaries. Two people reportedly lost their lives, and several others were injured in the commotion. Emergency medical teams, including those from the Kenya Red Cross and St. John Ambulance, provided immediate aid to the victims.
The pattern of chaos repeated on Saturday in Kisumu, where a public viewing at Mamboleo Stadium turned tragic. Witnesses reported that an overwhelming number of mourners pushed through entry points, causing a stampede that left several people injured. Kenya Red Cross teams on the ground provided first aid before transferring those in critical condition to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital. The situation forced organisers to suspend parts of the day’s program for safety reasons.
Medical teams across Nairobi and Kisumu have reported treating hundreds of people for injuries ranging from broken bones to breathing complications. Hospitals have been operating under intense pressure, with emergency responders working around the clock to handle the influx of patients.