Chaos erupts at JKIA as mourners overwhelm security during arrival of Raila Odinga’s body
Security personnel were briefly overwhelmed when the crowd forced its way through the VIP gates moments after the Kenya Airways plane bearing the remains of Raila touched down.
There was chaos at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning as hundreds of mourners pushed past security barriers to witness the arrival of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body.
Security personnel were briefly overwhelmed when the crowd forced its way through the VIP gates moments after the Kenya Airways plane bearing the remains of Raila touched down.
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The situation prompted a swift response from the military, police, and National Youth Service officers, who quickly formed a protective ring around the plane and the casket.
President William Ruto, Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and other top State officials were forced to return to the VIP room at the airport as the military carriage carrying the remains of the former ODM Party attempted to leave JKIA.
Chaos as Raila Odinga's supporters breach VIP gates after they overpowered security personnel to access JKIA. The crowds are running towards Raila Odinga's casket pic.twitter.com/WEyjNoqn7h
— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 16, 2025
The plane landed at about 9:30 a.m. and was received by President William Ruto alongside other top government officials and dignitaries.
At the main entrance, large numbers of mourners struggled to access the airport grounds, chanting and waving flags as they tried to catch a glimpse of the aircraft. Officers stationed at the gate attempted to calm the swelling crowd, but efforts to restrain them proved futile as mourners insisted on witnessing the homecoming of the late ODM leader.
Authorities have warned motorists to expect heavy traffic along Mombasa Road and nearby routes as the funeral convoy makes its way from JKIA to the Lee Funeral Home.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga told mourners at the airport that the motorcade would use Mombasa Road instead of the Nairobi Expressway to give Kenyans an opportunity to pay their last respects as the procession moves through the city.
From the airport, the convoy will proceed to Lee Funeral Home before heading to Parliament Buildings, where Raila’s body will lie in state for public viewing.
Police have mounted tight security along the route to maintain order and ensure the motorcade moves without disruption.
Raila, who died on Wednesday morning in India, is being accorded full state honours in recognition of his lifelong dedication to democracy, reform, and national unity. His burial is scheduled for Sunday.
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