Tensions ran high at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, October 16, after thousands of Kenyans gathered to witness the arrival of the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.

Following the removal of Raila’s body from Kenya Airways flight RAO001, some members of the public overpowered security and gained access to the aircraft, prompting an immediate security response.

The Kenya Airways flight, which had changed its call sign from KQ203 to RAO001 in honour of Raila Odinga, touched down at JKIA at 9:33 am. The special designation was a symbolic tribute to the veteran leader who shaped Kenya’s democratic journey for more than four decades.

President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and members of the Odinga family were set to receive the body.

Crowds surge at JKIA

The crowd had begun gathering near JKIA from the early hours of Thursday. As the body was removed from the aircraft, the large gathering surged forward, leading to security personnel being overpowered in some areas. In response, the Kenya Airports Authority temporarily closed the airspace over JKIA from 10:26 am to 12:26 pm to facilitate enhanced security measures.

Following the incident, anti-riot police reinforced security in the Central Business District, particularly around Parliament Buildings, where Raila’s body was to lay in state for public viewing. Razor wire barriers were erected, and crowd control measures were intensified to prevent further breaches.

The government declared Friday, October 17,a public holiday to honour Raila Odinga. A State Funeral Service will be held at Nyayo Stadium at 8 am, followed by an overnight vigil at his Karen residence. On Saturday, the body will be flown to Kisumu for lying in state at Moi Stadium before the burial in Bondo, Siaya County, on Sunday, in accordance with Anglican Church traditions.

Raila Odinga, aged 80, passed away in India on Wednesday after suffering a cardiac arrest. His return to Kenya marks a solemn moment in the nation’s history, reflecting the enduring respect and admiration he commanded across the country.