Babu Owino climbs the perimeter wall to address mourners
By Kiprono Keileb, October 16, 2025A dramatic scene unfolded outside Parliament on Thursday, October 16, 2025, as a large crowd of mourners gathered to pay tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. In the midst of the chaotic yet heartfelt gathering, MP Babu Owino climbed the perimeter wall to address the crowd and share words of consolation and encouragement.
The area around Parliament and City Hall Road was flooded with citizens chanting, singing, and waving banners in honour of Odinga. Many repeated the Luo phrase “Onge ng’at ma baba osenego,” meaning “there is no one that Baba [Raila] has killed,” highlighting the affection and respect the late leader commanded across the nation.
Police had rolled out razor wire to organise queues for viewing the body and maintain order, but the overwhelming number of mourners quickly scaled the barricades. The crowd surged along Parliament Road and City Hall Road, creating scenes of controlled chaos as people pushed forward to pay their respects.
Amid the throngs, Babu Owino’s gesture of climbing the wall drew cheers and applause. He addressed the mourners, urging them to remain peaceful while expressing their grief and celebrating Odinga’s legacy. His presence and words provided a sense of unity, reminding Kenyans of the late leader’s lifelong commitment to democracy and social justice.
Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as emotional, intense, yet respectful. Tears flowed freely as citizens sang and recited praises, many holding banners and photos of Odinga. Despite the surge, security officers worked to guide the crowd and ensure that the gathering remained safe.
The events outside Parliament underscored the profound impact Raila Odinga had on Kenyans. From chants and banners to heartfelt speeches, the scene reflected a nation coming together to mourn, remember, and honour a leader whose life shaped the political landscape for decades.