Tragedy Hits as 4 Lose Lives During Mourning for Kenyan Political Figure Raila Odinga
Four people lost their lives in Kenya's capital when armed personnel discharged weapons and deployed teargas to break up huge gatherings at a stadium where political figure Raila Odinga's body was lying in state.
National Figure Mourned
The politician, who was a major force in the country's governance for many years, died on Wednesday at eight decades while in hospital care in the Asian nation.
He struggled relentlessly for political pluralism, and we are enjoying those freedoms today because of his struggle.
Turmoil Erupts at Arena
Thousands followers gathered on the streets from early morning, with mayhem occurring when enormous throng forced open a entrance at the capital's primary venue, leading to soldiers to discharge weapons upward.
- Two individuals perished from bullets at the venue
- Casualties eventually reached to four people
- Numerous persons were hurt
- Police deployed chemical agents to clear thousands mourners
Airport Disruption and Parliament Standoff
Earlier in the day, countless of grievers temporarily invaded the capital's aviation hub, disrupting a formal proceeding where the head of state and other officials were welcoming Odinga's body with formal recognition.
This situation caused a two-hour suspension of aviation services.
Crowds also overwhelmed surrounding thoroughfares and attempted to breach the government complex, where the authorities had initially planned the community homage.
National Legacy and Ethnic Backing
Though mainly known as an opposition figure, Odinga assumed the role of head of government in 2008 and also formed a alliance with the president last year in a political journey marked by shifting alliances.
He inspired strong loyalty among supporters, especially in his ethnic group based in the nation's western region, many of whom maintain he was denied the presidency by vote manipulation.
Numerous of Odinga's mourners, who were not yet born in 1991 when Kenya established itself as a multi-party democracy, paid tribute to Odinga's contributions as an campaigner.