Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has committed to covering medical and legal costs for families affected by the shooting of mourners during Raila Odinga's public viewing at Kasarani Stadium. Autopsy reports confirm three deaths from gunshot wounds amid chaos on October 16, 2025. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for investigations into police actions.
On October 16, 2025, thousands gathered at Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi, for the public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's body, moved from Parliament due to overwhelming crowds. Chaos erupted when mourners forcefully pushed open Gate 5, surging forward and prompting police to fire live bullets and teargas to control the crowd. Video footage showed panicked individuals fleeing amid gunshots, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen signaling officers to halt the use of live ammunition.
Autopsy results released on October 21 confirmed that at least three mourners died from gunshot wounds. Activist Hussein Khalid detailed one case: "The cause of death is a single headshot. The bullet went in on the front of the head and exited at the back." Another victim, a mother of three, succumbed to suffocation during the ensuing stampede. Broader reports from Khalid indicate over seven deaths in Nairobi related to the week's mourning events, though specifics remain unconfirmed beyond the autopsies.
More than 100 people were injured, according to Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga, with 34 treated at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). KNH CEO Richard Lesiyampe noted the facility received these patients but cannot provide free treatment. Senator Okiya Omtatah visited KNH, reporting doctors were overwhelmed by the influx from welcoming ceremonies and memorials.
In response, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko pledged on October 21 to cover hospital and mortuary bills, body transportation, and other expenses for the victims' families. He also vowed to hire lawyers if the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and government fail to act, criticizing their silence. "I think these families need justice... IPOA should move with speed on the matter," Sonko said, demanding accountability for orders to use live rounds. He dismissed suggestions of political motives ahead of 2027 elections, emphasizing humanitarian concerns. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the shootings, amid national scrutiny of crowd control practices.