There was a major security breach at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning after crowds of mourners and boda boda riders gained access to the State Pavilion during the arrival of the body of the late Raila Odinga.
The unexpected surge disrupted the official reception programme, forcing security officers to momentarily lose control of the situation as emotional supporters broke through barriers to catch a glimpse of the hearse carrying Raila's remains.
Efforts by joint security personnel of military and GSU to contain the crowd proved futile as hundreds pushed past the barricades, as others scaled the perimeter wall, chanting Raila’s name and waving twigs.
The boda boda riders who gained access to the facility rode into restricted areas, further overwhelming the officers on duty.
Despite the disruption, the atmosphere remained largely peaceful, with mourners singing Raila’s popular slogans "Jowie" as the casket was received.
Security agencies later restored order as the procession prepared to depart for the Lee Funeral home ahead of the public viewing at Parliament buildings.
The procession carrying the body of the late Raila is currently making its way from JKIA through Mombasa road to Lee.
The route change was confirmed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who told mourners at JKIA that the procession would use Mombasa Road instead of the Nairobi Expressway to allow Kenyans to pay their last respects.
Hundreds of mourners are escorting the body being carried on a gun carrier.
The casket has been draped in a national flag.
President William Ruto and other national leaders who arrived to receive the body were still held up in a meeting at the State pavilion.
Raila, who passed away Wednesday morning in India, is being accorded full state honors in recognition of his immense contribution to Kenya’s democracy, reform, and national unity.
He will be laid to rest Sunday at his Opoda farm in Siaya.
