Witnesses say several individuals took advantage of the emotional atmosphere to loot valuables and even harvest fruits from the family’s farm.
Journalist Larry Madowo reacted sharply to the incident, questioning the moral decay displayed by some mourners.
“Baba has not been buried and you’re already harvesting his avocados?” he lamented, capturing the shock and dismay that spread online as images of the chaotic scene surfaced.
Security officers at the residence struggled to control the swelling crowd that had gathered since morning to pay tribute to the fallen leader.
According to sources within the compound, household items, chairs, and garden tools were among the property lost during the disorder.
Neighbors reported seeing people carrying sacks of avocados, firewood, and other produce from the homestead, forcing family aides to call for backup from police units. By the time order was restored, sections of the garden had been trampled, and parts of the fence had been destroyed.
Family representatives condemned the incident, terming it a deep disrespect to the memory of the man Kenyans fondly called Baba. They appealed for calm and requested the public to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy with dignity as the nation prepares for his state funeral.
The heartbreaking scenes at Karen have since drawn widespread criticism, with many Kenyans urging mourners to conduct themselves with respect.
Preparations continue at Parliament Buildings where the late opposition chief’s body will lie in state before being transported to Bondo for burial on Sunday.
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