Chaos erupt in Nairobi CBD as mourners take to streets following Raila Odinga’s death announcement

Tension erupted in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Wednesday afternoon after news broke of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, sparking unrest and scenes of looting in parts of the city.

Several shops were broken into by suspected goons who took advantage of the confusion to loot and vandalise property, as crowds gathered in the streets to mourn the ODM leader.

Footage seen showed groups of youths making away with stolen goods, while others waved tree branches and twigs a traditional sign of mourning.

At Jeevanjee Gardens, hundreds of mourners arrived on boda bodas, chanting Raila’s name and singing songs in his honour. Similar gatherings were reported in other towns as Kenyans poured into the streets to express grief over the veteran politician’s death.

Shop owners hurriedly closed their businesses amid fears that the demonstrations could turn violent, bringing activity in parts of the CBD to a standstill.

Police officers were later deployed to restore order and prevent further destruction, as authorities called for calm and urged Kenyans to mourn peacefully.

The death of Raila Odinga, who passed away in India earlier in the day, has triggered an outpouring of emotion across the nation, with leaders and citizens expressing shock and sorrow.