TikToker Who Mourned Raila Odinga Goes Viral After Smiling Upon Spotting Lulu Hassan

The emotional farewell to the late Raila Odinga took an unexpected turn online when a TikToker, known as Teso Charles, suddenly shifted from mourning to excitement upon spotting Citizen TV news anchor Lulu Hassan. The viral moment has since entertained millions across social media, blending grief with humor in a way only Kenyans could.

Raila Odinga’s passing left the nation heartbroken. The 80-year-old veteran politician reportedly suffered a heart attack while taking his morning walk in India, where he was undergoing medical treatment. His death sparked nationwide mourning, with thousands attending the state funeral at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 17, and later the burial at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Bondo, Siaya County.

Why Did the TikToker Stop Mourning Raila Mid-Funeral?

In a viral clip from Nyayo Stadium, Teso Charles appeared overcome with emotion, loudly wailing and chanting Raila’s name, “Baba,” as tears streamed down his face. The raw display of grief drew sympathy from fellow mourners—until Citizen TV’s Lulu Hassan appeared nearby.

The atmosphere changed instantly. Charles’s face brightened as he spotted the journalist, completely abandoning his tears for smiles. He quickly turned his camera toward her and exclaimed, “Lulu Hassan, hi, hi! A picture with Lulu Hassan, mtangazaji maarufu kutoka Citizen! Tuko pamoja madam, tumewachilia Baba, Mungu akubariki sana!” Lulu, clearly touched, replied, “I am very sorry for your loss,” before walking away. The clip has since accumulated over 1.9 million views on TikTok.

Did the TikToker Attend Raila’s Burial?

Charles later shared more videos confirming his deep admiration for the late Raila. He flew from Nairobi to Kisumu to attend the burial and even visited Raila’s home at Opoda Farm. In a lighthearted follow-up clip, he was seen at Kisumu Airport trying to negotiate a cheaper flight back to Nairobi, joking that he might end up stranded.

Netizens couldn’t stop laughing at his dramatic emotional shift. One user wrote, “Baba! 😭 Lulu Hassan 😂,” while another commented, “Shida wanaume wanalose focus haraka.” Others compared his reaction to the excitement of receiving an M-Pesa notification mid-crisis.

By Risper Akinyi