A heavy police presence was witnessed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday morning as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made his return to the country.
Traffic in and out of the airport flowed smoothly, though security checks were intensified as police officers took positions in and around the facility. The deployment comes amid heightened political tension following calls by the Democratic Change Party (DCP) for a massive welcome procession.
On Tuesday, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured Kenyans that the government was fully prepared to deal with any chaos that might arise. He maintained that the National Police Service was on high alert and would act swiftly against anyone disturbing public order.
“Let me say that the security sector is prepared to deal with any insecurity issues. The last time he was around there were many goons in the name of protests. We were very prepared, and every other minute, the National Police Service is prepared to protect citizens and their property,” Murkomen said.
The CS alleged that certain elements intended to disrupt peace, warning that legal action would be taken against lawbreakers. He urged Kenyans to maintain calm, stressing the importance of safeguarding the relative peace experienced in recent weeks.
On Monday, DCP Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala had announced plans for what he termed “the mother of all peaceful processions” from JKIA to Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). The procession, he said, would culminate in a major rally at the symbolic Kamkunji Grounds, a venue historically linked to political movements.
“We shall have a mother of all peaceful processions from JKIA to CBD and later address a rally at Kamkunji Grounds,” Malala stated, adding that police had been formally notified to provide security.
As of mid-morning, no major incidents had been reported at JKIA. However, the day’s events are being closely monitored amid concerns that political processions could escalate into confrontations. Authorities have appealed for restraint, while DCP leaders insist their activities will remain peaceful.
The return of Gachagua is expected to set the tone for renewed political activity in the coming weeks.
