Tension gripped the burial ceremony of celebrated Ohangla musician Tony Ndiema on Wednesday as scenes of chaos broke out during the body viewing session at his ancestral home in Omoche Village, Gem Asumbi, Rangwe Constituency, Homa Bay County.
The singer, whose real name was Anton Okoth Ochieng, passed away last month while receiving treatment at Oasis Hospital in Kisii, leaving fans and family devastated. His death sparked an outpouring of grief across the region, with thousands following updates on his funeral arrangements in the weeks that followed.
On the burial day, large crowds gathered from early morning to pay their final respects. As the viewing session began, emotions ran high, and organizers attempting to manage the massive turnout were seen pushing some mourners aside to keep the line moving. Visibly angered by the treatment, several mourners protested loudly, shouting “Wacha Wamuone,” a phrase meaning “let them see him,” as they demanded more time and dignity during the farewell process.
The commotion briefly disrupted proceedings before order was restored, allowing the ceremony to continue. Tributes and musical performances followed later in the day, celebrating Ndiema’s contribution to Ohangla music and the legacy he built during his career.
Fans online have continued to react strongly to the events, with many expressing frustration over how the viewing was handled and calling for better organization at public funerals of prominent figures.
Ndiema’s passing marks the loss of one of the genre’s most recognized voices, and his burial has drawn national attention throughout the mourning period.