Thousands of Kenyans poured into the streets of Nairobi on Thursday in a massive show of grief and solidarity as the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga was transported from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Lee Funeral Home.
Crowds gathered in large numbers at Parliament Buildings and around Lee Funeral Home, with many expressing frustration after being blocked by heavily armed security officers.
Razor wire barricades were deployed, and riot police stationed at key locations to control the swelling crowd.
Mourners, many waving flags, chanting liberation songs, and holding portraits of Odinga, claimed they were peacefully mourning their fallen leader and should be allowed closer to the motorcade and venues associated with the funeral procession.
“We are not here to cause chaos. We are here to mourn Baba,” said one emotional supporter outside Parliament.
Some in the crowd voiced anger and confusion after rumors spread that the public viewing of Odinga’s body had been moved from Parliament to Kasarani Stadium, though there was no official confirmation from the government or the funeral committee at the time of reporting.
The situation escalated when parts of the crowd attempted to breach the barriers, prompting additional reinforcements by security forces.
Despite the tensions, the majority of the mourners remained peaceful, singing and walking alongside the convoy from JKIA all the way to the city center.
This public outpouring of grief highlights the deep connection many Kenyans felt with Odinga, a veteran opposition figure who shaped the country’s political landscape for decades.
Authorities have urged calm, asking the public to wait for official communication on the public viewing schedule, which was initially set for Thursday afternoon at Parliament Buildings, followed by a state funeral at Nyayo Stadium on Friday.
Friday declared public holiday in honour of Raila Odinga as state funeral plans unfold
