At least eight people were reported injured in stampede as crowds forced their way into the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani Tuesday morning.
More police were brought in to control the situation after the scene turned chaotic.
A few minutes past 6 AM, police said they were unable to control the crowds, which broke the stadium’s fences and trooped in without being frisked.
“There was a breach but we have controlled the situation,” said a police officer at the scene.
Videos from the event showed hordes of people streaming into the stadium screaming hysterically.
Some sustained injuries, with Red Cross personnel seen evacuating the casualties from the scene. Police later said they had closed the gates.
“In anticipation of being part of history, Kenyans have thronged into the venue in large numbers. By 5.00 am this morning, the venue had already filled to capacity, as more people continued to troop to the venue,” police spokesperson Bruno Shioso said in a statement.
“To avoid logistical challenges, this is to request the public to make alternative arrangements to view the proceedings, especially from the comfort of their homes.”
Huge screens were mounted outside the stadium for those who were locked out by 7.30 am.
Up to 10,000 police officers had been mobilized for operations for the event. Some were deployed on the streets and more around the venue of the event.
