Operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Kenya have been suspended following the arrival of the body of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Odinga passed away in India at the age of 80, reportedly due to a cardiac arrest he suffered while walking. He was taken to a hospital near Kochi but did not respond to resuscitation efforts and was pronounced dead.
Upon the arrival of Odinga’s body on Thursday morning, large crowds of mourners gathered at the airport, carrying twigs and palm branches. These crowds breached security protocols, which led authorities to implement a “precautionary closure” of the airport to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone involved. The aviation agency has advised the public and travelers to avoid the airport until further notice.
Given the unexpectedly large turnout, the public viewing ceremony for Odinga’s body has been relocated from Parliament to Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi. Odinga, a prominent political figure, had a lengthy career as an opposition leader, participating in several presidential elections over the years.
Condolences have poured in from various leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who referred to Odinga as a “towering statesman,” and Kenyan President William Ruto, who described him as a “beacon of courage” and a “father of our democracy.” Following his passing, a seven-day mourning period has been declared, and he will receive a state funeral with full military honors.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyk1l65nqvo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss