Residents view late Senator Ben Oluoch's body ahead of burial

The body of the late Migori Senator Ben Oluoch Okello has arrived at Migori Stadium for public viewing ahead of burial on Monday.

Kenya Police aircraft carrying the body and family members landed at Lichota Airstrip before it was moved to Migori Stadium for viewing.

But confusion reigned at the venue when the surging crowd almost pulled down the tent where the casket was placed.

Migori County Police Commander Joseph Nthenge and his team had a tough time controlling rowdy mourners.

Migori Governor Okoth Obado and Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ were among the leaders who attended the event where they urged local politicians to stop early campaigns for the vacant senate seat.

"Let us first finish the burial ceremony of Mr Okello. We should not rush into early campaigns," said Mr Obado.

Mr Kajwang’ told the mourners that he will be their “acting” senator until a by-election is held and a new leader picked.

"I will articulate your issues in the Senate until you elect a new person," he said.

Mr Okello's body was later taken to Awendo and Ranen. It will later be taken to his Kanyimach home where he will be buried.

The politician succumbed to throat cancer at MP Shah Hospital in Nairobi last month.

At his home, relatives and residents continue to meet every day to plan his burial in accordance with Luo tradition.

High-ranking political leaders including ODM leader Raila Odinga are expected to attend the burial.

Senator Okello was a former presenter at Ramogi FM and KBC radio presenter and was popularly known as Boo by his many fans.