How Nyanza lit nights with dance, song for fallen son

Mourners perch dangerously on a water tank at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu to follow the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard]

Supporters of the late ODM leader Raila Odinga in Nyanza spent sleepless nights holding vigils, organising local discos, and staging night processions to mourn a man many consider irreplaceable.

In Kisumu, parts of the city came to a standstill following the news of Raila’s passing. The sorrow was palpable. On Friday night, thousands flooded the streets blowing whistles and vuvuzelas, weeping openly and participating in joint prayer sessions.