NAIROBI, Kenya – Security has been tightened at the Nairobi and Bondo homes of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga ahead of his burial on Sunday, amid fears of possible chaos following a series of disturbances linked to his return from India.
Police said the measures were meant to ensure a smooth and dignified send-off for the ODM leader, whose death in India after a heart attack has sparked an emotional wave among his supporters.
Multiple security agencies have been deployed to both residences following reports of harassment and robberies targeting mourners by goons infiltrating the crowds.
In Nairobi, police erected roadblocks at the entrance to Odinga’s Karen home, while similar reinforcements were made in Bondo, Siaya County.
Officials said the National Security Council, chaired by President William Ruto, met on Wednesday and ordered the deployment of additional personnel to maintain order during the funeral events.
The decision followed chaotic scenes on Thursday when crowds of mourners breached security during the arrival of Odinga’s body at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Hundreds of supporters, including boda boda riders, forced their way into the State Pavilion, overwhelming security officers and disrupting the official reception programme.
Security personnel from the military and the General Service Unit struggled to control the crowd as emotional supporters scaled barriers and chanted Odinga’s name.
The disorder at the airport prompted the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to temporarily close airspace over JKIA for two hours — from 10:26 a.m. to 12:26 p.m. — to allow security rescreening. Seven flights were diverted during the operation.
“The safety and security of our passengers, staff, and all airport users is our highest priority,” KAA acting Managing Director Mohamed Gedi said in a statement. “This action is part of our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest security standards.”
The crowd trouble also forced a revision of earlier burial plans. A planned public viewing of Odinga’s body at Parliament Buildings was cancelled after mourners overwhelmed the venue, prompting authorities to move the event to Kasarani Stadium.
Security was also heightened at Lee Funeral Home, where officials cancelled plans to hold the body briefly after reports of a possible breach. Instead, the convoy carrying Odinga’s remains was redirected straight to Kasarani for viewing.
Authorities have appealed for calm and urged mourners to observe order during the remaining funeral events.
