Murkomen Speaks on Security Challenges During Raila Odinga’s Funeral Events
Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has openly admitted that security agencies were not fully prepared for the unexpected challenges that arose following the sudden death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during a Sunday church service at AIC Kisumu Arina Local Church, Murkomen reflected on the events that unfolded after Raila’s passing.
He acknowledged that the security system was caught off guard and faced significant logistical pressure, especially during the reception of Raila’s body at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Murkomen explained that the ministry did not anticipate such a sudden turn of events and had to act quickly to manage the situation.
“I would like to sincerely thank our regional commissioner and the entire security team for doing their best under very difficult circumstances.
Many people criticized the ministry, but nobody can plan for death, especially for a man of Raila’s stature,” he said.
Raila Odinga passed away in India on Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest. His body was flown back to Kenya a few hours later. When the plane carrying his body arrived at JKIA, thousands of supporters flooded the airport to pay their respects.
The massive crowd broke through security barriers and made their way onto the runway, creating chaotic scenes that overwhelmed law enforcement officers.
Due to the overwhelming turnout, the initial plan to have the body viewed at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi had to be changed. The ceremony was instead moved to the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, where security officers struggled to control the huge crowds.
At some point, police resorted to firing live bullets to disperse the restless mourners. Murkomen, who was present at the scene, was seen pleading with officers to stop using live ammunition against the grieving public.
In his Sunday address, Murkomen praised his security team for acting swiftly to fix the problems and restore order after the confusion witnessed at the airport and the stadium. “It was impossible to fully estimate the kind of security arrangements that would be needed for such a massive event.
But I’m proud that we improved quickly—from JKIA to Kasarani, then to Nyayo, Kisumu, and finally Bondo,” he added.
Murkomen further explained that part of the logistical strain came from Raila’s personal wish to be buried within 72 hours after his death.
This short timeframe made it extremely difficult to organize a state funeral of such scale, involving numerous government agencies, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of mourners.
Despite the challenges, the country successfully held a solemn and emotional burial ceremony for the veteran politician. Raila Odinga was finally laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County.
The ceremony drew huge crowds, with leaders, family members, and citizens coming together to honor the legacy of one of Kenya’s most influential political figures.
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