Security agencies have stepped up operations at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu ahead of the public viewing of Raila Odinga’s body, as the city braces for an unprecedented crowd.
From the early hours of Saturday morning, police sealed off all routes leading to the venue, conducting heavy screening and controlling access to ensure safety during the ceremony.
Officers from the General Service Unit, Administration Police, regular police, and county enforcement units have been deployed in large numbers around the stadium.
Multiple security checkpoints have been mounted at every entry and exit, where attendees are being frisked, and vehicles inspected before gaining access. Those without accreditation are being turned away from restricted zones, especially near the main dais where the casket will be placed for public homage.
Roadblocks and barricades have been set up along the Mamboleo–Miwani and Kibos roads to regulate movement and prevent crowd surges. Traffic police have also been stationed at key intersections to manage the steady flow of vehicles heading to and from the venue.
County enforcement teams are working closely with national police to ensure the event proceeds smoothly and that crowd control remains effective throughout the day.
Emergency response units, including ambulances from the Kenya Red Cross and Kisumu County Government, are on standby, with medical tents positioned within and outside the stadium.
Authorities say these measures are part of a coordinated safety plan to handle any incident and guarantee public order.
County officials confirmed that the venue’s security perimeter was reinforced overnight, with surveillance teams patrolling both inside and around the stadium.
Only accredited journalists, leaders, and security officers have access to the inner cordoned area as thousands of mourners continue streaming in for the viewing.
The Kisumu County Security Committee assured residents that all systems are in place to maintain peace and security during the ceremony. They urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with officers to ensure a dignified and incident-free farewell for Raila Odinga.