Tension erupted at Opoda Farm, the rural home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, after hundreds of mourners forced their way into the compound on Saturday afternoon.
Security officers, including police and military personnel, battled to contain the situation as crowds surged toward the main gate, determined to access the homestead ahead of the Odinga family’s arrival.
Security Overwhelmed by Surging Crowd
According to eyewitnesses, the crowd had gathered outside the Bondo residence early in the morning, chanting and waving flags in tribute to the late opposition leader.
Despite the heavy presence of armed security, the mourners pressed forward, chanting Raila’s popular slogans and calling for entry to “see Baba one last time.”
“The officers tried to block them, but the pressure was too much. The gate was almost pushed open,” said a local resident who witnessed the scene.
At one point, the gate was forced partially open, allowing dozens of mourners to squeeze through before officers managed to regain control.
Attempt to Enter Raila’s House Foiled
Inside the compound, chaos intensified as a few individuals attempted to approach the main house, prompting swift intervention by military guards.
Security officers restrained one man who allegedly tried to force his way inside the residence, before he was ejected from the inner compound.
The incident highlighted the emotional intensity surrounding Raila Odinga’s final journey, with thousands of supporters converging on Siaya County ahead of his Sunday burial ceremony.
Heavy Security Ahead of State Burial
The government had heightened security across Bondo, Kisumu, and other parts of Nyanza in anticipation of large crowds expected to attend the state funeral.
According to local authorities, additional officers were deployed to ensure order during the weekend-long ceremonies that will culminate in Raila’s burial at his Opoda home.
“We understand the grief and emotions, but we are appealing to mourners to maintain calm and cooperate with security arrangements,” said a senior Siaya County police official.
