Security has been tightened at the
Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu ahead of the arrival of the body
of the late former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, for public
viewing.
By 6 a.m. on Saturday, hundreds of
residents had already gathered outside the stadium, waiting to gain entry.
Many were seen dressed in party
colours and carrying placards bearing Raila’s image. Several attendees said
they had arrived before dawn to secure vantage positions inside the stadium for
the historic event.
Security operations around the venue have been intensified, with multiple checkpoints established at all entry and exit points.
The checks are being manned by
officers from the regular police, Administration Police Service, General
Service Unit (GSU), and county enforcement teams.
Attendees are being subjected to
thorough screening, while vehicles are inspected before being allowed into
designated parking areas.
Barricades have been erected along
the main access roads leading to the stadium, including the Mamboleo–Miwani and
Kibos routes, to regulate both human and vehicular movement.
Traffic police officers have been
deployed at key junctions to guide motorists and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Emergency response teams and
ambulances from the Kisumu County Government and the Kenya Red Cross have been
stationed at strategic points within and around the stadium to respond to any
incidents. Medical tents have also been set up to provide first aid and support
services to attendees.
County officials have confirmed that
preparations for the public viewing were completed overnight, with the
stadium’s main stands and field areas arranged to accommodate thousands of
mourners expected throughout the day.
Designated entry lanes have been
marked to facilitate orderly movement and prevent overcrowding.
Security officers have been
instructed to maintain high vigilance to ensure safety during the viewing. Only
accredited media personnel and authorized individuals are being allowed into
restricted zones near the main dais where the casket will be placed for public
homage.
Regional and local leaders are
expected to join residents and dignitaries from across the country for the
viewing ceremony.
Authorities have appealed to the
public to maintain peace, order, and decorum during the event. The Kisumu
County Security Committee said all measures have been put in place to ensure a
smooth and dignified farewell for the late Raila Odinga, as the region prepares
to pay its final respects to one of its most prominent sons.
