KISUMU, Kenya — Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in western Kenya on Saturday to pay their final respects to Raila Odinga, a revered political figure whose death has left the nation in profound grief. The massive turnout in Kisumu, Odinga’s political stronghold, marked the climax of a week-long mourning period that has already claimed at least five lives. As his coffin arrived by helicopter at the city stadium, the crowd erupted in emotional chants of “Baba” (father) and “We are orphans,” reflecting the deep connection Odinga had with his supporters. Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday in India from a suspected heart attack, sparking nationwide sorrow, particularly among the Luo community, which he championed. Despite the overwhelming crowd, the event in Kisumu was relatively orderly compared to earlier ceremonies in Nairobi, where security forces resorted to lethal measures to control surging crowds. A medical source reported that 74 people were treated for fainting and dehydration at the stadium. Odinga’s legacy as a key architect of Kenya’s multi-party democracy and the 2010 constitution remains undisputed, though his death leaves a leadership vacuum in the opposition. His pragmatic alliances, including a recent deal with President William Ruto, had alienated some young voters. As Kenya prepares for potentially turbulent elections in 2027, the future of Odinga’s political movement remains uncertain.