NAIROBI, Kenya — Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has raised concern over the rising number of casualties admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) following the stampede at Kasarani Stadium, during the public viewing of the former Prime Minister, the late Raila Amolo Odinga’s body.
Omtatah, who visited the facility on Sunday evening, said medical staff were overwhelmed as they struggled to treat more than 40 victims brought in from the chaotic scenes at the stadium.
“During my visit to the hospital, I met with the Head of the Emergency and Accident Unit and members of the medical team who have been working tirelessly to save lives,” Omtatah said. “They expressed concern over the immense strain on staff and limited resources as they respond to the crisis.”
The senator expressed dismay that several of the injured were still being asked to pay for treatment despite the emergency nature of the situation. He noted that only a few had qualified for emergency medical waivers under the existing framework.
“It is deeply worrying that many of the injured are still expected to meet their medical costs,” he said. “I have undertaken to pursue immediate government interventions to ensure all victims receive the medical care they need promptly and without financial barriers.”
Omtatah urged the Ministry of Health to take immediate action to cushion the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for reforms to strengthen Kenya’s emergency response systems and hospital preparedness for mass casualty incidents.
The chaos at Kasarani erupted when police fired tear gas to control thousands of mourners who had filled the stadium to capacity.
Panic ensued as crowds rushed to flee, leading to a deadly stampede. Witnesses say some mourners began throwing stones, prompting officers to respond forcefully, turning what was meant to be a solemn moment into one of tragedy and confusion.
