Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has urged the government to act swiftly to support victims of the tragic stampede that occurred during the public viewing and State Funeral of the late Raila Amolo Odinga at Nyayo Stadium.
Speaking after visiting Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Omtatah confirmed that more than 40 casualties were admitted following the incident, with one person confirmed dead.
He said the hospital’s emergency unit was under immense strain as medical staff worked around the clock to treat the injured.
“I met with the Head of the Emergency and Accident Unit and members of the medical team who have been working tirelessly to save lives,” he said.
“They expressed concern over the overwhelming strain on staff and limited resources as they respond to the crisis.”
Omtatah criticised the limited framework under which only a few victims qualify for emergency waivers, saying many of those injured are still expected to cover their medical costs.
He pledged to pursue immediate interventions to ensure all victims receive treatment without financial burden.
“This tragic event reminds us of the urgent need to strengthen our emergency response systems, invest in hospital preparedness, and support our overstretched health workers,” he said.
Atleast 5 people died in the melee, after police officers opened fire to prevent mourners from accessing the VIP room where Raila Odinga’s body was being kept before public viewing.
