Nairobi, Kenya – Tragedy struck the state funeral of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga on Friday, as a stampede claimed the lives of two people and left dozens injured. The incident occurred as large crowds surged forward, eager to pay their respects to the late Odinga and view his coffin.

The overwhelming turnout highlighted the deep respect and widespread support Odinga commanded throughout his career as a prominent figure in Kenyan politics. However, the sheer volume of mourners ultimately contributed to the chaotic and deadly scene.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF), present at the funeral to provide medical assistance, confirmed the casualties and the extent of the injuries. MSF teams worked tirelessly to provide emergency care to the injured, many of whom suffered from crush injuries and breathing difficulties. The exact number of injured remains unclear, but reports suggest it could be in the dozens.

The stampede underscores the challenges of managing large crowds at emotionally charged events. While security measures were in place, the intensity of the public's desire to participate in the funeral overwhelmed the existing infrastructure.

Raila Odinga, a veteran politician, served as a constant voice of opposition in Kenya for decades, championing democratic reforms and social justice. His passing has been met with widespread grief and mourning across the nation. The state funeral was intended to be a moment of national unity and remembrance, but the tragic stampede cast a shadow over the proceedings.

Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede to determine what factors contributed to the incident and to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The focus now remains on providing support to the families of the deceased and ensuring that the injured receive the necessary medical care. The nation mourns not only the loss of a significant political figure but also the lives lost in the tragic events that unfolded at his funeral.