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The initial 72-hour mourning period for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics, proved insufficient for a grieving nation, leading to an extension and tragic stampedes at public viewing events.
The outpouring of grief following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, has highlighted a national challenge in balancing official mourning protocols with the deep emotional connection Kenyans held for the veteran politician. The initial 72-hour mourning period, reportedly outlined in Odinga's will, was quickly overwhelmed by public demand for an extended farewell, culminating in tragic incidents at public viewing venues.
President William Ruto declared a seven-day national mourning period, with flags flying at half-mast, acknowledging Odinga's immense contributions to Kenya's democratic journey. This extension, however, came after the initial limited timeframe contributed to chaotic scenes as thousands sought to pay their last respects.
Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in India due to cardiac arrest, was a central figure in Kenyan politics for over five decades. Born on January 7, 1945, he was the son of Kenya's first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and played a pivotal role in the 'Second Liberation' movement that advocated for multi-party democracy in the early 1990s.
Odinga's political career was marked by a relentless pursuit of constitutional reform and social justice, enduring nearly nine years in detention without trial during President Daniel arap Moi's regime. He served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and contested the presidency five times, each time alleging electoral fraud.
In Kenya, a State Funeral is the highest honour a nation can bestow, reserved for individuals whose public life has significantly shaped national history. While these ceremonies follow established customs and official traditions, Kenya currently lacks a formal law explicitly defining the organisation of State Funerals or who qualifies for them. Instead, a blend of presidential discretion, military protocol, and cultural practices guides these events.
The President issues an official proclamation to recognise the individual's national importance and declares a period of mourning. During this time, national flags are flown at half-mast, and public institutions observe solemnity. The lying in state, where the body is placed in a public space for citizens to pay their final respects, is a visible aspect of these ceremonies.
The National Funeral Committee, co-chaired by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Senator Oburu Oginga, Odinga's elder brother, has been coordinating the elaborate four-day programme. The committee acknowledged the overwhelming turnout of mourners, which necessitated adjustments to the viewing schedule.
The public's desire to view Odinga's body led to immense crowds at both Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium. Many mourners expressed their deep sorrow and frustration at the limited viewing opportunities. The use of green twigs, known as 'okumba' in Dholuo, has become a widespread grassroots symbol of mourning, reflecting Luo traditions of grief and remembrance.
Tragically, the overwhelming crowds at public viewing events resulted in fatalities and numerous injuries. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, four people were killed and scores injured at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, after security forces used teargas and fired shots to disperse crowds. Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga confirmed that approximately 100 individuals were treated for injuries sustained during the chaos at Kasarani.
The following day, Friday, October 17, 2025, two more people died and 163 were injured in a stampede at Nyayo National Stadium during the public viewing of Odinga's body. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported treating 163 patients and referring 34 for further care, with most injuries involving blunt trauma and fractures.
The tragic incidents at the public viewing events underscore the risks associated with managing large, emotionally charged crowds, particularly when mourning a highly revered public figure. The lack of a clear legal framework for State Funerals, coupled with the immense public attachment to Odinga, contributed to the challenges in crowd control and ensuring public safety.
These events highlight the need for comprehensive planning and communication strategies for future national mourning events to prevent similar tragedies. Ensuring adequate security, clear access protocols, and sufficient viewing time are crucial to honouring national heroes while safeguarding public welfare.
The nation will be watching closely as the remaining funeral arrangements unfold, particularly the public viewing in Kisumu and the final burial in Bondo. The focus will be on maintaining order and ensuring the safety of mourners, learning from the tragic events of the past two days. Discussions are also likely to emerge regarding the formalisation of State Funeral protocols in Kenya to prevent future inconsistencies and ensure dignified and safe farewells for national heroes.
