NAIROBI, Kenya — Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has been placed under tight security lockdown as the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga prepares for repatriation to Kenya, with authorities anticipating a massive public turnout to pay final respects to the opposition leader.
Multiple security agencies, including the Administration Police, Kenya Defence Forces, and specialized airport security units, have established concentric security perimeters around the airport, according to police sources familiar with the operation.
Security personnel have established specialized routes for the funeral procession from JKIA to Lee Funeral Home, with police escort vehicles and rapid response units positioned along the entire route.
“We have created dedicated corridors from JKIA to Lee Funeral Home to ensure the dignity and security befitting a national leader,” a senior police officer involved in the operation told the press on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the media.
The security measures reflect the massive public outpouring anticipated for Odinga’s return. Thousands of citizens have already begun gathering near airport approach routes, singing political songs and carrying banners honoring the former prime minister.
Professor Herman Manyora, a political analyst at the University of Nairobi, observed that “This isn’t just a funeral; it’s a national event that captures the emotional attention of all Kenyans. The security deployment is unprecedented because nobody anticipates the number of people who want to view and pay tribute to this leader.”
The security operation follows President William Ruto’s declaration of seven days of national mourning and the flying of the Kenyan flag at half-mast until Odinga’s burial. Dignitaries from across Africa and beyond are expected to attend the funeral ceremonies, adding further security complexity.
An JKIA security official stated that “We’re coordinating closely with international security details to ensure our honored guests experience secure and dignified conditions during this mourning period.”
The security plan includes measures to prevent public congestion, maintain traffic flow, and ensure the safety of all dignitaries and officials at the airport. Alternative transportation routes have been designated for regular airport passengers and guests to minimize disruption.
Nevertheless, the situation remains challenging due to public emotion. “We understand this is an emotional situation, but we must maintain calm and honor our leader with dignity and respect,” added the police officer.
