Wantam chants echoed through the air as thousands of Kenyans gathered in Nairobi to mourn the late Raila Odinga. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta stood before the sea of mourners, his voice steady yet heavy with emotion. “Leo ni siku ya kuomboleza,” he said — “Today is a day of mourning.”
His words stirred both tears and cheers, as the crowd responded with cries of “Wantam,” a phrase now symbolizing defiance toward leaders accused of clinging to power.
Odinga’s death on October 15 at age 80 has plunged the nation into sorrow. The veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister died of a heart attack while receiving treatment in Kochi, India. His passing has united Kenyans across political lines in grief and remembrance of his lifelong fight for justice, equality, and democracy.
In a heartfelt eulogy, Kenyatta called Odinga a brother and a patriot, praising his courage and sacrifice. Their bond, once defined by political rivalry, was transformed by the 2018 Handshake, a historic truce that brought calm after years of unrest. President William Ruto, who also paid tribute, described Odinga as a flame of democracy and announced a state funeral in his honor.
The day, however, was marked by tension and disorder. At Parliament Buildings, where the public viewing was scheduled, emotional crowds overran security barriers. Police struggled to contain the mourners, leading to brief scuffles and chaotic scenes. The incident revived memories of last year’s anti-government protests, where youth clashed with police demanding accountability.
Authorities were forced to move the viewing to the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani to manage the swelling crowd. As Kenyatta’s convoy made its way there, supporters surrounded his car, singing and waving flags. Videos showed him greeting them, visibly moved by their unity in grief.
Earlier at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, similar chaos unfolded as Odinga’s body arrived from India. Overwhelmed security forces had to step aside as thousands flooded the runway, forcing dignitaries to retreat for safety.
Odinga’s state funeral will take place on Friday at Nyayo Stadium, followed by burial on Sunday in Bondo, Siaya County. From Kibera to Kisumu, businesses remain closed as the nation mourns “Baba,” the father of Kenya’s democracy.
By Kenyans