Clashes broke out Thursday morning in Nairobi, when Kenyan security forces fired into the air and used teargas to disperse the crowd that had come to pay homage to Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister and historic opposition figure, who died the day before at the age of 80.
The body of the leader, who died in India while receiving medical treatment, was repatriated to Kenya overnight. Thousands of supporters gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport before following the funeral procession to Nairobi Stadium, where a public vigil was held.
According to witnesses, tensions rose as the large and emotional crowd attempted to approach the coffin, prompting a violent response from police. Warning shots were fired, and several people were injured in the ensuing stampede.
Authorities have not yet released an official death toll, but images posted on social media show scenes of panic, clouds of tear gas and protesters shouting slogans in memory of Odinga, considered a heroes of democracy after spending nine years in prison under the one-party regime.
The government called for calm, promising state funeral in the coming days. Several African leaders, including former heads of state, are expected to attend the official ceremony, as people continue to flock to Nairobi to pay tribute to one of the greatest symbols of Kenya's freedom struggle.
