Police officers were on Thursday, October 16, 2025, forced to lob teargas and fire in the air to disperse a huge crowd at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, ahead of the body viewing of the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
This is after the crowd occupied the presidential dias at the venue, making it almost impossible for President William Ruto and other dignitaries to access the field.
The incident led to chaos, with at least three people reportedly getting shot dead. The officers spared no one, as a section of journalists was also targeted.
President Ruto is among a host of national leaders who have arrived at the Kasarani ahead of the public viewing ceremony for the late Raila Odinga.
Thousands of mourners had gathered at the stadium to pay their final respects.
This development came after a last-minute change to the original plan, which had scheduled the public viewing at Parliament buildings.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries led by Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior), and several elected leaders from across the political divide had also arrived.
The abrupt shift to the programme was announced by the National Steering Committee. It was prompted by security and logistical concerns, with Kasarani offering a larger, more manageable space for the massive crowds expected.
