The event, meant to be a calm and orderly gathering, quickly turned chaotic when a large crowd of enthusiastic locals, eager to see the Wiper leader, surged past security and into the compound.
The crowd, mostly from the surrounding neighborhood, had gathered in anticipation of Kalonzo’s arrival. As leaders from both ODM and Wiper stood by, waiting for the leader, the situation took a turn when hundreds of residents forced their way into the compound, disrupting the planned proceedings. Attempts by organizers to calm the crowd were unsuccessful, and the situation became tense.
Ida Odinga, wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, stepped in to try and defuse the chaos. In a video that later circulated, Ida was seen waving her hands and urging the crowd to clear the way, shouting, “Watoke nje wote!” (Everyone, out!).
Her intervention was met with mixed reactions, but security officers swiftly acted on her directive, enforcing her request to clear the gate. After a few moments of confusion, part of the crowd complied, and they gathered outside the compound, allowing Kalonzo to make his entrance.
When he finally arrived, Kalonzo was warmly received by key political figures, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and Ida Odinga. The Wiper leader later took part in the traditional Luo “tero buru” ritual, carrying a spear and shield and chanting the iconic “jowi jowi,” which elicited cheers and more excitement from the crowd.
Kalonzo’s visit also included a tribute to the late Raila Odinga, whom he had served as deputy in two past presidential campaigns.
Speaking in Kisumu after the event, Kalonzo described Raila as a giant of Kenyan politics, emphasizing that his contribution to the country’s democracy and governance would never be forgotten.
Kalonzo also honored Raila’s legacy as the “father of maandamano” (protests), acknowledging his unyielding fight for good governance, which continues to inspire many Kenyans today.
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