Tension gripped Opoda Farm in Bondo on Saturday when mourners forced their way into the late Raila Odinga’s residence shortly after Mama Ida Odinga’s arrival.
The emotional scene unfolded as crowds gathered to pay their respects to the late former Prime Minister, whose death has drawn nationwide mourning.
According to eyewitnesses, hundreds of mourners had camped outside the gate of the Odinga home from the early morning hours, eager to catch a glimpse of Mama Ida, who was returning to her Bondo home for the first time since her husband’s demise. However, as her convoy approached, emotions overwhelmed the crowd, leading to a brief confrontation between mourners and police officers manning the gate.
Videos circulating on social media show a scuffle as officers tried to contain the surging crowd, with mourners insisting on entering the compound to join the family in mourning.
The disruption at the entrance did not escalate beyond the initial scuffle, and calm was eventually restored as mourners settled within the compound.
Mama Ida, visibly emotional, was received by close family members and political allies. Ida has been away since the tragic news of Raila’s passing, spending time in Nairobi as burial arrangements continue.
Security around Opoda Farm has since been reinforced as preparations for Raila’s final farewell continue in Bondo, with thousands expected to attend his burial ceremony on Sunday.
By Newshub