Kenya: Crowd Chaos at Odinga Funeral Leaves at Least Two Dead

Kenyan security forces were forced to use live ammunition in the air to manage a chaotic crowd at the funeral of late opposition leader Raila Odinga, resulting in at least two fatalities. The event, attended by tens of thousands, turned violent as tensions flared among supporters. Witnesses reported that the situation escalated rapidly, with security personnel resorting to live rounds to disperse the crowd, despite efforts to maintain order.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for accountability. The funeral, which was a significant political gathering, saw supporters of Odinga, a former president and current opposition leader, expressing their grief and anger over his passing. The violence has raised concerns about the safety of public gatherings in Kenya, particularly during politically sensitive events.

International observers have expressed concern over the use of lethal force by security personnel and are urging the Kenyan government to conduct a transparent inquiry. The incident has also intensified debates about the need for stricter crowd management protocols and the role of security forces in safeguarding public safety during large-scale events.