Nairobi, Kenya, Oct’ 16, 2025 – Three people died and five others injured following gunshots at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday afternoon, moments after the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body.
The incident occurred as thousands of mourners surged forward to catch a glimpse of the hearse carrying Raila’s body into the stadium. Witnesses said security officers were overwhelmed as the crowd broke through barriers, causing panic and confusion.
Medics on site confirmed that the three young men succumbed to injuries sustained from gun shots, while five others were rushed to nearby hospitals in critical condition. Several others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
The tragedy unfolded amid confusion surrounding the day’s program, which had already faced delays earlier at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where the planned state reception was abruptly cancelled despite the presence of President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
At Kasarani, the situation worsened when it was announced that there would be no public viewing of Raila’s body as earlier scheduled, sparking frustration among mourners who had gathered since morning. However, at around 4: 40 pm Thursday afternoon, public viewing began.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the deaths or the change in the day’s program. Police have cordoned off parts of the stadium as investigations continue.
The chaos has further compounded the confusion surrounding Raila’s state funeral preparations, with questions emerging over the coordination of security and crowd control measures.
However, at around 4:40pm vieiwing of the body began but unclear on when it will end.
