Emotional send-off for Kenya's revered ex-PM Raila Odinga at state funeral

BBC NewsFriday, October 17, 2025 at 5:21:59 PM
Emotional send-off for Kenya's revered ex-PM Raila Odinga at state funeral
The state funeral for Kenya's revered former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was marked by tragedy as two people lost their lives in a surge of crowds trying to pay their respects. This emotional send-off highlights the deep impact Odinga had on the nation, but the chaos also raises concerns about crowd management at significant events. It serves as a reminder of the passion and devotion many Kenyans feel for their leaders, but also the potential dangers that can arise in such emotionally charged situations.
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Raila Odinga, the prominent Kenyan politician who passed away at 80, left a significant mark on the country's political landscape. Serving as prime minister from 2008 to 2013, he was known for promoting inclusivity and calm during his tenure. His legacy is intertwined with his family's history, as his father was a key figure in Kenya's independence movement. Odinga's life and career reflect the complexities of Kenyan politics, making his contributions and the impact of his passing noteworthy for both supporters and critics alike.
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A tragic crowd surge at the state funeral of opposition leader Raila Odinga in Nairobi resulted in the deaths of two people and left many others injured. This incident follows a separate police shooting at a memorial that claimed three lives, highlighting the tense atmosphere in Kenya as the nation approaches the critical 2027 elections. Odinga's passing not only deepens the grief but also raises concerns about the leadership vacuum and potential unrest in the political landscape.
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Kenya recently held a state funeral for opposition leader Raila Odinga, following a period of mourning that saw significant public turnout. His body is set to be taken to his family's home region in western Kenya, where even larger crowds are anticipated. This event is significant as it highlights the impact of Odinga's political legacy and the deep respect he garnered from his supporters, reflecting the ongoing political dynamics in the country.
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The coffin of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has arrived at a state funeral attended by thousands of mourners in Kenya. This event is significant as it reflects the deep respect and admiration the public has for Odinga, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, and highlights the impact he had on the nation.
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Tragedy struck in Nairobi as at least three people lost their lives during a public viewing for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The 80-year-old leader's body was returned from India, prompting a large gathering at Kasarani Stadium. However, the event turned chaotic when police used tear gas on mourners, leading to accusations of excessive force. This incident highlights ongoing tensions between security forces and citizens, raising concerns about public safety during such significant events.
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Tragically, at least three people have lost their lives after police in Kenya opened fire to disperse mourners attending the public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The large crowds necessitated a move from the parliament building to a stadium, highlighting the significant public interest and respect for Odinga. This incident raises serious concerns about police conduct and the handling of public gatherings, especially during times of mourning.
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