Chaos Breaks Out in CBD, Shops Looted as Kenyans Take to the Streets Mourning Raila Odinga
Nairobi descended into chaos on Wednesday afternoon as grief, disbelief, and anger swept across the nation following the sudden death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The heart of Kenya’s capital was shaken as crowds poured into the Central Business District (CBD) to mourn a man many called Baba, transforming what began as peaceful mourning into scenes of panic and destruction.
Grief Turns into Chaos
What started as chants of “Baba! Baba!” quickly spiraled into violence. In dramatic footage seen by Kenyans.co.ke, mobs were captured breaking into shops, smashing windows, and looting goods as confusion and sorrow engulfed the city. The air was filled with both tears and shouts, with many waving twigs and chanting Raila’s name as police struggled to contain the growing unrest.
“People are heartbroken. They are angry. They don’t believe Raila is gone,” shouted one mourner, tears streaming down her face outside the Hilton area.
“I closed early after hearing the news, but they broke in anyway,” said James Oduor, a shopkeeper who lost thousands worth of goods. “I understand the pain, but this is not what Raila would have wanted.”
Streets Paralyzed, Police Overwhelmed
Within hours, the normally busy Nairobi streets became battle zones. Tear gas filled the air as police attempted to disperse the crowds, but the situation proved overwhelming.
Commuters scrambled for safety, matatus screeched to a halt, and terrified passersby ducked for cover. Even as police sirens wailed, the chants of “Raila! Raila!” grew louder, echoing across the city’s skyline.
Reports from police sources indicated that officers were initially caught off guard by the sudden outpouring of grief. With emotions running high, law enforcement struggled to balance empathy with enforcement.
“We understand the pain Kenyans are going through, but destruction will not bring peace,” said Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei. “We urge everyone to mourn peacefully and avoid criminal acts.”
A Nation in Shock
The wave of chaos was triggered after confirmation that Raila Odinga had passed away earlier that morning in India. According to hospital officials, the former Prime Minister suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk in Kerala, where he had been receiving Ayurvedic treatment.
The 80-year-old had traveled to India just six days earlier, and his family, including his daughter and close relatives, were by his side at the time of his death.
“He was rushed to the hospital but pronounced dead at around 9:52 a.m. Indian time,” read a statement from the hospital.
News of his passing spread like wildfire across social media, sparking confusion, disbelief, and sorrow nationwide. Many Kenyans refused to accept the reality that the man who had fought tirelessly for democracy and justice was no more.
Countrywide Grief and Protests
As the situation worsened in Nairobi, similar scenes unfolded across the country. In Kisumu, a city often considered Raila’s political stronghold, businesses voluntarily shut down. Streets filled with wailing supporters, boda boda riders revved their engines, and residents waved twigs in the air as a symbol of mourning.
“We have lost our father, our hope, our hero,” cried one resident, her voice trembling. “Without Raila, we are lost.”
In Bondo, Raila’s rural home, hundreds of mourners gathered outside his residence, blocking roads and chanting in sorrow. Women wailed uncontrollably while men lit candles and carried portraits of the late leader. Business came to a complete standstill as locals paid tribute in song and prayer.
“Baba has left us, but his spirit remains,” said an elderly man in Bondo. “He taught us courage, and we will honour him with peace.”
In Kibera, where Raila once served as Member of Parliament, thousands of residents filled the streets, holding green branches and photos of the former Prime Minister. They sang liberation songs and called for national unity even as emotions ran high.
“We are mourning but also celebrating his fight for justice,” said Peter Otieno, a Kibera resident. “Raila stood for the poor, and today, the poor cry the loudest.”
Business Owners Count Losses
Back in Nairobi, the aftermath of the chaos painted a grim picture. Broken glass littered the streets, burnt tires smoldered, and frightened business owners assessed the damage. Many said they supported mourning Raila but condemned the lawlessness that followed.
“We are grieving too, but this violence is painful,” said Aisha Noor, a stall owner in the CBD. “People have lost everything they worked for.”
Analysts fear that the looting and destruction could deepen the economic strain on small traders who were already struggling to recover from tough economic times.
President Ruto’s Call for Calm
“In honor of the life and times of the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, I declare a period of national mourning from today until his interment,” the President said from State House.
He urged Kenyans to channel their grief into peace, not destruction.
“Let us mourn with dignity and gratitude. Raila’s legacy is one of courage, not chaos,” he added.
Indian Government Steps In
In a show of solidarity, the Government of India offered to cover all costs related to Raila’s repatriation to Kenya. President Ruto confirmed that a high-level delegation led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Mama Ida Odinga, and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen had departed for India to coordinate the process.
“The government of India, at the request of the government of Kenya, has offered to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of our former Prime Minister,” Ruto stated.
Calls for National Unity
Political leaders from both sides of the divide have since called for peace and restraint. ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga urged supporters to honor Raila’s memory by remaining calm.
“Let us mourn with peace, as Baba would have wished. His fight was never about violence but justice and equality,” she said at a brief press conference.
Across Africa, tributes poured in. The African Union, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Raila as a statesman who shaped Africa’s democratic vision.
“Raila Odinga was one of Africa’s most visionary sons,” said AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. “His leadership transcended borders and inspired generations.”
Nation Holds Its Breath
By evening, calm had partially returned to parts of Nairobi, but tension still hung in the air. Police remained on high alert, while Red Cross volunteers helped those injured during the chaos.
As night fell, thousands gathered outside Parliament Road, holding candles and singing hymns. A giant banner bearing Raila’s image was unfurled, reading: “Rest in Power, Baba.”
For many, the mourning has just begun.
“This country will never forget Raila Odinga,” said a tearful woman holding her child. “He fought for our freedom, and we will carry his spirit forward.”
As the sun sets on this historic day, the nation remains united in sorrow, reflecting on a leader who gave his all for the people. Amid the tears, chaos, and heartbreak, Kenyans cling to one truth: Raila Odinga’s legacy will live on forever.
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Chaos Breaks Out in CBD, Shops Looted as Kenyans Take to the Streets Mourning Raila Odinga
