NAIROBI — Autopsy reports have confirmed that three mourners killed during the chaotic public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, died from gunshot wounds.
The revelations have fuelled public anger and renewed scrutiny of police conduct during the emotionally charged event, which was meant to honour one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
Activist Hussein Khalid, who accompanied the family of one victim, said the autopsy showed the man was killed by a single bullet to the head.
“The cause of death is a single headshot. The bullet went in from the front and exited through the back,” Khalid told reporters on Tuesday.
The confirmation came as thousands of mourners gathered at Kasarani on October 16 to view Odinga’s remains. The event, initially planned for Parliament, was moved to the larger venue after crowds overwhelmed the original site.
Chaos at the Stadium
What began as a solemn farewell quickly turned tragic. Videos circulating online showed crowds running in panic amid the sound of gunfire.
According to police, chaos broke out when mourners forced open Gate 5, leading to a dangerous surge of people trying to enter the stadium. Officers reportedly responded with gunfire and teargas to control the crowd.
Witnesses say the situation escalated rapidly, leaving several people injured and others trampled in the confusion.
At one point, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was captured on video gesturing to security officers, urging them to stop firing live bullets.
Human Cost and Official Response
Beyond the gunshot victims, one woman — a mother of three — died from suffocation after being caught in the stampede triggered by police gunfire, according to Khalid.
Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga confirmed that more than 100 people were injured in the melee, many suffering fractures and respiratory distress.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched an investigation into the incident. Its findings are expected to determine whether police used excessive force.
“We will pursue justice for the victims and their families,” Khalid said, adding that such tragedies “cannot become normal in moments of national mourning.”
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has pledged to cover funeral expenses for those who lost their lives in the chaos.
Public Outcry
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with Kenyans demanding accountability from security agencies over their handling of large public gatherings.
Human rights groups have criticised the police for resorting to live ammunition, saying the tragedy underscores a long-standing pattern of excessive force in Kenya’s law enforcement.
As investigations continue, the sombre question remains: how a day meant to celebrate Raila Odinga’s life ended in death and despair for several of his supporters.