Heartbreaking images of Yvonne Akinyi, the wife of Vincent Otieno — one of the victims who lost their lives during the chaos at Kasarani Stadium — have surfaced online, capturing the depth of her grief and her cry for justice.
Otieno was among those who had gathered to pay their last respects to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga when violence erupted during the memorial service.
According to reports, he was allegedly shot by police officers amid the confusion and panic that engulfed the stadium.
Speaking at the Nairobi City Mortuary, a tearful Akinyi said she was still struggling to come to terms with her husband’s sudden death. She described him as a kind, peaceful man who only wanted to honor Raila’s memory.
“I still can’t believe he’s gone. He just went to mourn, not to fight anyone,” she said, breaking down as relatives comforted her.
According to Vocal Africa, at least three people lost their lives after police fired bullets and tear gas to control the huge crowds that had gathered to view Raila Odinga’s body.
The organization told the BBC that the victims suffered gunshot wounds, though it remains unclear whether live or rubber bullets were used.
Eyewitnesses painted a grim picture of the scene, saying plainclothes officers were seen beating mourners as panic spread across the stadium.
Despite the tragic incident, the event later resumed under tight security, with President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto viewing Raila’s body alongside other dignitaries.
Human rights organizations have condemned the excessive use of force, calling for a full investigation into the police’s conduct during the memorial.
Meanwhile, Yvonne Akinyi and other grieving families are demanding answers, insisting that their loved ones were innocent Kenyans who only wanted to pay their last respects to a leader they admired.
Raila Odinga’s burial is expected to take place on Sunday at his home in Bondo, Siaya County.
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