Thousands Mourn Kenya’s Raila Odinga Amid Rising Tensions

Vast crowds congregated in western Kenya on March 16, 2024, to pay their respects to prominent politician Raila Odinga, whose death has sparked intense mourning and concern over public safety. Odinga, aged 80, passed away from a suspected heart attack in India on March 13, triggering widespread grief among his supporters, who affectionately referred to him as “Baba,” meaning father. As the largest day of mourning ceremonies unfolded, the atmosphere remained tense following violent incidents earlier in the week that have already claimed five lives.

The city of Kisumu, known as the heartland of Odinga’s support, prepared for an influx of mourners as his body arrived for public viewing. On the eve of the ceremonies, roads leading to the city were lined with candles, and groups of supporters danced while vuvuzela horns filled the air with sound. The anticipation, however, was shadowed by fears of potential violence, reminiscent of the chaos witnessed in recent days.

On March 14, security forces opened fire to disperse an unruly crowd at a stadium in Nairobi where Odinga’s body was initially displayed. This incident resulted in at least three fatalities. The following day, during the state funeral led by President William Ruto, a stampede of mourners left two more dead and dozens injured, raising alarms about safety during the ongoing ceremonies.

Raila Odinga was a pivotal figure in Kenya’s political landscape, serving as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. Despite his five unsuccessful attempts at the presidency, he played a crucial role in the re-establishment of multi-party democracy in the 1990s and was instrumental in the creation of the constitution adopted in 2010. His death leaves a significant leadership void within the opposition, especially as critics highlight his failure to groom a successor.

Odinga’s body was repatriated from India on March 14 and was set to lie in state in Kisumu before being transported to Bondo in Siaya County, the family’s ancestral home, for a private burial. The political landscape in Kenya faces uncertainty as Odinga’s movement and his recent alliance with President Ruto are put into question following his passing. Young voters, who have expressed dissatisfaction with governance and economic conditions, may react strongly to the leadership vacuum left in the opposition.

As the ceremonies continue, the nation watches closely, aware that the upcoming elections in 2027 may be fraught with challenges. Raila Odinga’s legacy as a champion of democracy and his complex relationships within the political arena will undoubtedly shape Kenya’s path in the months ahead.