NAIROBI, Kenya — The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced a change in the venue for the public viewing of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga’s body, citing the overwhelming number of mourners flocking to pay their final respects.
In a press statement issued Thursday by Philip Etale, the party’s Director of Communications, ODM confirmed that the viewing has been moved from Parliament Buildings to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“Due to the surging number of mourners, the viewing of the body of H.E. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani,” the statement read.
Change of venue
Etale added that the relocation aims to provide more space and sufficient time for Kenyans to view the body in an organized and dignified manner. “Members of the public are advised to proceed to Kasarani where they shall have enough space and time to view the body,” he said.
The decision comes after massive crowds gathered in Nairobi’s city centre and along Mombasa Road earlier in the day, causing traffic disruptions as mourners accompanied the funeral procession from JKIA to Lee Funeral Home.
Authorities have since heightened security around the Kasarani Stadium, with traffic diversions expected on Thika Road to manage the large crowds anticipated throughout the viewing period.
ODM’s announcement underscores the magnitude of national mourning that has gripped Kenya since the news of Odinga’s death, with thousands pouring into the streets to honour the man many regard as a pillar of democracy and reform.
URGENT PRESS STATEMENT BY @TheODMparty DEPUTY PARTY LEADER ON THE RELOCATION OF PUBLIC VIEWING OF THE BODY OF H.E. RAILA ODINGA TO KASARANI STADIUM, NAIROBI.
