Hundreds hurt as Kenya mourns former premier Raila Odinga | DW News

Key Concepts

• Rao Dinga (Raila Odinga): Former Kenyan Prime Minister, revered figure, champion of democracy and civil rights.
• Kisumu: Western city in Kenya, Odinga's home region, site of a large memorial service.
• Nairobi: Capital of Kenya, site of an earlier state funeral.
• State Funeral: Official funeral ceremony held by the government.
• Memorial Service: A ceremony to remember and honor a deceased person.
• Democracy and Civil Rights: Principles Odinga campaigned for.
• Resilience, Courage, Unwavering Commitment: Qualities attributed to Odinga by his son.
• President William Ruto: Current Kenyan President, who previously campaigned for Odinga.
• Jomo Kenyatta Stadium: Venue for the public viewing of Odinga's body in Kisumu.
• Bondo, Siaya County: Location of Odinga's burial ceremony.

Memorial for Rao Dinga in Kisumu Marred by Violence

Overview of Events

The memorial service for former Kenyan Prime Minister Rao Dinga in Kisumu was disrupted by chaos, resulting in hundreds of mourners being injured. This incident occurred following earlier funeral events in the capital, Nairobi, where several people had been killed. The high emotions and significant security presence contributed to the unrest in Kisumu, where thousands gathered to pay their final respects to the late premier.

Rao Dinga's Legacy and Public Reverence

Rao Dinga was a highly respected figure with a dedicated following, particularly in his home region. His decades-long advocacy for democracy and civil rights earned him widespread admiration. His son, Raila Odinga Jr., described his father as embodying "resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of freedom and justice," stating, "He always stood for what he believed was right, sometimes at great family cost and personal cost as well. He was my hero."

Political Career and Tributes

Despite running for the presidency five times, Odinga never secured the top office. Notably, current President William Ruto had once campaigned for Odinga before later running against him. Nevertheless, President Ruto offered a warm farewell, stating, "Every once in a generation there comes a leader whose impact transcends their moment, whose courage inspires change, and whose vision shapes destinies. My brother Rao Amo Odinga was one such leader."

Public Viewing and Previous Violence

Emotional scenes unfolded at the public viewing of Odinga's body at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu. Earlier ceremonies in Nairobi had been marred by violence, with security forces reportedly firing on crowds, leading to several fatalities. Odinga's family had appealed for peaceful mourning.

DW Correspondent's Report from Kisumu

DW correspondent Felix Moringa reported from Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu, observing thousands of people who had gathered since 6:00 a.m. East African time to pay their respects. Mourners endured long lines and the "scorching sun" to get a final glimpse of their leader.

Mourners' Sentiments and Reasons for Attendance

Interviews with attendees revealed the deep affection and respect they held for Odinga. One mourner stated, "We are coming here to see our hero Raa Moinger for the last chance because this is the person who fought for us. You see we as that's our legend and this is the last that's the this last respect we are paying for him." Another expressed sadness, feeling they had "lost a part of Kenya" but remained hopeful for the future, praying for peace. Many described Odinga as a "father, a mentor, a her teacher and a father, our president, Raa's people's president."

Odinga's Role as a Cultural Elder and Mentor

Beyond his political influence, Rao Odinga was recognized as a cultural elder in Kisumu and the larger lake region. He had mentored numerous politicians in the area, who looked up to him as a father figure. He was also credited with attracting development to the region through his engagement with successive governments.

Burial Arrangements

Following the ceremonies in Kisumu, Rao Odinga's body was to be taken to Bondo in Siaya County for a burial ceremony scheduled for Sunday. A private burial, attended by close family members and some government officials, was planned for Sunday afternoon.

Synthesis and Conclusion

The memorial for Rao Dinga in Kisumu highlighted the profound impact he had on the lives of many Kenyans, particularly in his home region. While his passing was met with widespread grief and a desire for peaceful remembrance, the events were unfortunately overshadowed by violence, underscoring the high emotions surrounding his death. Odinga's legacy as a champion of democracy, a cultural elder, and a mentor continues to resonate, leaving a significant void in Kenya.