Emotions ran high at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on the morning of Thursday, October 16, when a massive crowd overwhelmed security officers as they attempted to receive the body of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

What began as a solemn moment quickly turned chaotic as hundreds of supporters breached security barriers, forcing the military and police to intervene.

The crowd reportedly surged through the VIP gates moments after the aircraft carrying Odinga’s body touched down shortly after 9:30 a.m.

Security personnel drawn from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), National Police Service (NPS), and the National Youth Service (NYS) struggled to contain the wave of mourners chanting “Baba has arrived,” a slogan long associated with the late opposition leader.

Also Read:Maurice Ogeta, the Man Who Stood With Raila Until His Last Minutes

Tight Security as Military Takes Control

The operation at JKIA was primarily coordinated by the KDF to ensure the safe transfer of Odinga’s remains to Lee Funeral Home.

According to an itinerary shared by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, President William Ruto was among those expected to receive the body officially.

However, the sheer size and emotional intensity of the crowd disrupted the planned proceedings.

Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Muriu Kahariri, who was present at the scene, was momentarily caught in the crowd as he tried to restore order.

Despite attempts to calm the situation, the overwhelming numbers made it impossible to fully control the throngs of supporters pressing toward the runway.

By 10:20 a.m., the black hearse carrying Raila’s body began its journey out of the airport under heavy military and police escort.

A light aircraft was spotted circling overhead, providing aerial surveillance as part of the heightened security measures.

Also Read:Little Known Details of Raila Odinga’s Opoda Farm Where He Will Be Buried

Medical Teams Deployed Amid Tension

In preparation for the day’s events, Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga confirmed the deployment of 36 ambulances to manage potential medical emergencies during the reception of Odinga’s body.

He further announced that a Port Health ambulance would remain stationed at JKIA to coordinate emergency responses with other agencies.

Traffic Paralysis Along Mombasa Road

The arrival of the motorcade triggered massive traffic disruption along Mombasa Road as thousands of supporters lined the highway to pay their respects.

Motorists were urged to seek alternative routes as the convoy made its way to Lee Funeral Home under tight escort.

Despite the brief scenes of disorder, the day underscored the deep emotional connection Kenyans had with Raila Odinga,  a man many revered as the embodiment of Kenya’s struggle for democracy and justice.

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Kenyan leaders standing beside the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s casket. PHOTO/ Citizen Tv