Raila Odinga’s send-off took an unexpected turn moments after dignitaries, led by President William Ruto, had departed the venue.
A massive crowd of mourners who had been locked out of the private burial stormed the former Prime Minister’s gravesite at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.
The crowd — numbering in the hundreds — tore up wreaths and decorations that had just been laid, chanting, pushing, and dancing as they forced their way into the family compound.
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Videos and photos seen by FMFIX HUB showed mourners scaling the mausoleum that also hosts Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
The dramatic scenes unfolded barely an hour after the official ceremony, which had been attended by top leaders, including President Ruto, who had laid wreaths and offered final tributes to the late opposition chief.
The Odinga family had emphasized that the burial would be strictly private, but the massive turnout and emotional intensity made control nearly impossible.
Security officers at the scene struggled to contain the surging crowd, which brought with them branches, shields, and even seven bulls. Many were adorned with green leaves — a traditional Luo symbol of cleansing and life — as they danced and chanted cultural songs.
According to a local elder, the ritual of dancing with leaves and storming the compound was intended to “chase away evil spirits and restore peace to the community” following the death of their leader.
The chaotic scenes mirrored those seen on Thursday, October 16, when Raila’s body arrived from India.
Thousands had overrun Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, breaching security and forcing the funeral committee to shift the public viewing from Parliament to Kasarani Stadium.
Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, in India, was laid to rest with his signature hat — Ogudu — and a traditional whisk (Orengo), symbolizing his enduring authority and legacy in Luo culture.
The incident highlighted the deep emotional bond and devotion many Kenyans felt toward Raila, whose influence in national politics and grassroots movements remains unmatched.