Tension was high at the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s home in Opoda Farm, Bondo, Siaya County, on Saturday after a section of mourners forced their way into the compound.
The situation unfolded as security officers tried to control hundreds of people who had gathered outside the gate, all desperate to enter the homestead to pay their last respects.
Security had been tightened earlier in preparation for the arrival of Mama Ida Odinga and other family members, with both police and military officers deployed to maintain order.
However, the large crowd pushed forward, chanting and demanding entry. The pressure on the gate became too strong, and at one point, it partially swung open, allowing some mourners to squeeze through.
Officers tried to push them back, but the mourners were too many, leaving the security team briefly overwhelmed.
Inside the compound, the situation grew tense when one man tried to force his way into Raila’s house. Military officers quickly intervened, restraining him and escorting him out.
After the incident, officers created a buffer zone near the house to ensure that only close family members and selected relatives could enter.
Still, many mourners remained around the compound, some even climbing trees and walls to catch a glimpse of what was happening inside.
The huge crowd showed how deeply Raila’s death has affected many Kenyans, especially in Siaya, his ancestral home and political stronghold.
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