NAIROBI, Kenya – Thousands of mourners have converged on the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, to pay their final respects to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, prompting authorities to shift the public viewing of his body from Parliament buildings to the larger venue.
The change was announced after overwhelming crowds flooded the streets around Parliament, causing massive traffic jams and security concerns in the city centre.
According to officials, the decision was made to allow more Kenyans the opportunity to view the late opposition leader’s body in a safer and more accessible environment.
“Due to the unprecedented turnout and logistical challenges, the public viewing will now take place at Kasarani Stadium,” a government statement read in part.
Initially, Odinga’s remains were to be taken from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Lee Funeral Home and then to Parliament for public viewing.
However, the plan was revised as mourners gathered in their thousands, lining major roads and public spaces since early morning.
Military and mortuary teams stationed at Lee Funeral Home have since been redeployed to Kasarani, where final preparations were ongoing by midday.
Security officers have cordoned off parts of the stadium as the government works to control the surging crowds.
Authorities have cautioned motorists to expect heavy traffic along Thika Road and connecting routes leading to Kasarani as the nation continues to mourn the veteran politician.
More changes to the funeral programme are expected later in the day as security agencies and organisers adjust to the scale of the public turnout.
Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, died on Wednesday, triggering an outpouring of grief across the country and beyond.
