Disaster Strikes as 4 Lose Lives During Memorial for Kenyan Political Figure Raila Odinga
Four people were killed in the capital city when security forces opened fire and used teargas to scatter massive crowds at a sports arena where statesman Raila Odinga's remains was lying in state.
Political Leader Honored
The statesman, who was a significant presence in the nation's political landscape for decades, passed away on Wednesday at eight decades while in hospital care in the Asian nation.
He fought tirelessly for multi-party democracy, and we are enjoying those rights today because of his struggle.
Turmoil Unfolds at Venue
Countless devotees congregated on roadways from early morning, with mayhem breaking out when a large crowd broke through a barrier at Nairobi's main stadium, leading to military personnel to fire in the air.
- A pair of persons lost their lives to gunfire at the stadium
- Casualties eventually reached to four
- Scores of individuals were hurt
- Police deployed chemical agents to clear thousands grievers
Airport Disruption and Government Building Standoff
Earlier in the day, numerous of supporters temporarily invaded Nairobi's international airport, interrupting a formal proceeding where the head of state and dignitaries were welcoming Odinga's body with military honors.
This situation prompted a two-hour suspension of aviation services.
Crowds also overwhelmed surrounding thoroughfares and sought to penetrate the legislative building, where the government had first arranged the open visitation.
Political Legacy and Ethnic Support
Although primarily recognized as an political challenger, Odinga served as prime minister in 2008 and also formed a agreement with the president last year in a political journey marked by changing partnerships.
He generated strong loyalty among adherents, especially in his cultural background based in the country's west, many of whom maintain he was denied the nation's leadership by election irregularities.
Countless of Odinga's followers, who were not living in 1991 when Kenya transitioned to a pluralistic political system, expressed respect to Odinga's work as an advocate.
