Mourners Stung in Bee Attack at Raila Odinga’s Opoda Farm Residence

BONDO, Kenya – A somber day of mourning for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was marked by dramatic and emotional incidents on Saturday.

Also read: Why Gachagua Was Absent at Raila’s Farewell, According to His Camp

The solemn event was abruptly interrupted when a swarm of bees descended upon the area, sending mourners into a panic and temporarily halting the proceedings.

This is the second time such an incident has occurred during the public farewell to the veteran politician, following a similar bee attack on mourners at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi earlier in the week.

The disruption in Bondo capped an emotionally charged day that began when Raila’s body was flown to Kisumu from the capital, allowing thousands of residents in his Nyanza political heartland to pay their last respects.

The grief was palpable, with the intensity of the moment leading to multiple security and medical incidents.

Several mourners collapsed upon viewing the former Prime Minister’s remains. In separate scenes, overwhelmed crowds breached security barriers in their eagerness to get closer to the casket.

In response to the day’s events, the Odinga family and authorities have issued calls for calm and order. Winnie Odinga, one of Raila’s daughters, publicly appealed to the public to maintain respect and decorum during the final rites for her father.

With a host of dignitaries, including Presidents Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda expected to attend, security will be significantly heightened for Sunday’s burial.

A police source confirmed that arrangements are being “beefed up” to ensure a smooth and secure final farewell at the Kang’o Ka Jaramogi burial site.

The burial of Raila Odinga is scheduled for Sunday, 19th January 2025.

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