Raila Odinga mourns supporters who died during his return from US

NASA leader Raila Odinga. (Photo: Courtesy)

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has sent condolences to the families of people who died on Friday (November 17, 2017) following chaos that rocked Nairobi during his return from the US.

Raila said on Saturday those who perished will not be forgotten as they sacrificed their lives for the cause of democracy.

The former Prime Minister also noted his return was the deadliest day ever since the Post Election Violence in (PEV) that rocked the country in 2007.

“So, you and hundreds of thousands of others fearlessly pushed past the barricades and the heavily armed security forces arrayed against you. I stand before you today with a heart filled with pain. Hundreds of thousands of you yesterday (Friday) braved the desperate acts of lawless repression and blockading of your settlements and roads to come greet and escort me from the airport.

“But your courage and conviction came at a very steep price. Many who left their homes early in the morning with joy in their hearts but never returned home to their families and other loved ones. Others still lie in hospitals. This was the deadliest day ever since PEV in 2007,” said Raila.

The Opposition chief reiterated such acts of police brutality confirmed that the Jubilee Government opposes democratic choice.

Five people lost their lives and several others were injured including Kathiani Member of Parliament Robert Mbui when police clashed with NASA supporters in the city.

According to police spokesman George Kinoti, the dead were stoned to death by angry mobs in different incidences after they were allegedly caught stealing.

“We are aware that sections of the mobs accompanying the NASA convoy, looted property and five (5) persons were killed by stoning in different incidences after having been caught stealing by enraged crowds.Two were stoned along Landies Road, two next to country bus station and one along Racecourse Road,” said Mr Kinoti on Friday.