Crowds that had gathered at Kasarani Stadium to pay their final respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were caught in a horrifying turn of events on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
What was meant to be a peaceful public viewing turned into tragedy after gunfire erupted inside the stadium, leaving at least three people dead and many others injured.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as mourners who had come to bid farewell to one of Kenya’s most influential leaders found themselves running for safety. The emotional gathering, filled with chants, songs, and tributes, was suddenly interrupted by chaos that spread rapidly across the stands.
CNN journalist Larry Madowo, who was at the scene, captured the shocking incident in an exclusive video that has since circulated widely online.
His footage shows police officers firing into the crowd as people screamed and scrambled to escape. Sharing the clip on X, Madowo questioned the presence of an unidentified man seen standing near the officers, suggesting that he might have been giving instructions to the shooters.
His post read, “These are the men who fired inside a packed Kasarani Stadium. At least three people are confirmed dead at the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body, @VOCALAfrica_ says.”
The disturbing images spread quickly across social media, sparking outrage and demands for accountability. Many users expressed disbelief that such violence could occur at a national mourning event meant to honor a man who had dedicated his life to peace and democracy.
Videos from the scene showed people falling as they tried to flee, with others collapsing due to suffocation and tear gas. Several witnesses claimed that officers appeared overwhelmed by the crowd, while others accused security forces of using excessive force that led to unnecessary deaths.
VOCAL Africa, a regional human rights organization, later confirmed that three people had died during the incident. They called for an immediate and transparent investigation to determine who authorized the use of live bullets against unarmed mourners.
Medical teams stationed at the venue were seen rushing to help the injured, though the chaos made it difficult for ambulances to access parts of the stadium.
