Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has admitted that the security arrangements during former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s funeral faced unprecedented challenges that took officials by surprise.
Speaking at a church service at the AIC Kisumu Arina Local Church, Murkomen revealed that the suddenness of Raila’s death created logistical nightmares, leaving security teams scrambling to maintain order as thousands of mourners descended on key venues.
“I want to thank our regional commissioner and security team for their swift action. Many people criticized us, but no one plans for the death of a man of Raila’s stature,” Murkomen said.
The chaos began at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where Raila’s body was met by an overwhelming crowd. Supporters surged past security, reaching the runway in scenes described as “unbelievable,” forcing authorities to rethink the planned viewing ceremony.
What was initially scheduled for the Parliament buildings had to be moved to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, as the number of mourners exceeded expectations.
At the stadium, security personnel fired live rounds in an attempt to control the crowd, prompting Murkomen himself to intervene and urge officers to stop.
Despite the turmoil, Murkomen praised his teams for rapidly adapting, stating, “You cannot fully anticipate the security arrangements needed, but I am proud of how we improved from the airport to Kasarani, then to Nyayo, Kisumu, and finally Bondo.”
The difficulties were further compounded by Raila’s request to be buried within 72 hours of his passing—a tight timeframe that intensified the pressure on security, logistics, and organizers.
Raila was eventually laid to rest on Sunday, October 19, at his ancestral home in Bondo, Siaya County, concluding a week marked by unprecedented crowds, tense moments, and a nation in mourning.
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