The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced that the public viewing of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body has been relocated from Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
In a statement on Thursday, October 16, ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale said the decision was made following an overwhelming turnout of mourners who had gathered to pay their last respects.
"Due to the surging number of mourners, the viewing of the body of HE Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from Parliament buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," the statement read.
Etale further noted that the change of venue was meant to ensure that the public can comfortably participate in the viewing exercise without congestion or delays.
"Members of the public are advised to proceed to Kasarani where they shall have enough space and time to view the body," the statement added.
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Elsewhere, Operations at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was suspended for two hours following a breach of security during the arrival of the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In a statement, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) announced that flights and other airport operations had been temporarily halted to allow security teams to regain control of the situation.
"Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) informs the public that operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been temporarily suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya," the statement read.
KCAA explained that a large crowd of mourners had managed to gain unauthorized access to restricted areas of the airport, forcing authorities to act to ensure safety.
"A large number of mourners gained access to restricted areas, prompting a precautionary closure to allow security teams to restore order and ensure safety," the statement added.
KCAA appealed to travelers and the general public to remain patient as normal operations are expected to resume once the situation is under control.
"Members of the public and travelers are advised to remain calm and avoid the airport area until further notice. Normal operations will resume once the airport is declared secure in the next two hours. A NOTAM of the same has been issued," the statement concluded.
