The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has dismissed allegations of a security breach at Kisumu International Airport (KIA) on Saturday, following claims by opposition leaders that unauthorised groups gained access to the facility.
Allegations by ODM Leaders
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, both members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faction, alleged that “goons” were allowed inside the airport to disrupt their travel ahead of a political rally in Kakamega.
Sifuna claimed his team was forced to divert their flight to Kakamega Airport after learning of the alleged breach, while Owino accused Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo of sponsoring violence at KIA.
KAA’s Response
In a statement issued Monday, KAA rejected the claims, clarifying that all access control measures remained fully operational and strictly enforced in line with national civil aviation security regulations.
“The Airport Security Committee and the Border Management Committee (BMC), working jointly with state security agencies, maintained full situational awareness and operational control throughout the period,” KAA said.
The Authority stressed that there was no disturbance, no compromise to passenger safety, aircraft operations, or airport infrastructure during the period in question.
Political Context
The allegations come amid the Linda Mwananchi tour, led by Sifuna, which has been marred by violent incidents and fatalities. ODM leaders have accused the government of sponsoring youth groups to disrupt their rallies, while maintaining that they will continue their nationwide engagements.
Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the violent incidents, accusing political leaders of choreographing chaos to gain sympathy.
“This comedy of going to meetings with teargas and carrying goons armed with knives and batons, that we will deal with firmly,” Murkomen said during a church service in Kericho County.
Conclusion
While ODM leaders insist their rallies are being targeted, KAA’s rebuttal underscores the sensitivity of airport security and the political tensions surrounding opposition activities. The episode highlights the intersection of aviation safety and Kenya’s charged political environment.
