Normal operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) continued seamlessly on Thursday morning, despite anticipation surrounding the expected arrival of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
By 9 a.m., the airport was running on schedule, with passengers moving in and out of Terminal 1A without disruptions. Contrary to expectations of a large political reception, the scene remained calm and routine, marked only by a visible increase in security presence.
This comes after United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala had on Tuesday urged Kenyans to converge at JKIA from 8 a.m. to welcome Gachagua. “We call on the people of Kenya to show up at JKIA at 8 a.m. to receive our leader, Rigathi Gachagua. We confirm that we will, as a party and as the people of Kenya, gather in large numbers,” Malala declared.
However, by mid-morning, the much-anticipated crowds had not materialized. Instead, a contingent of General Service Unit (GSU) officers was stationed at the airport from as early as 6 a.m., conducting briefings and monitoring the situation closely. Two water cannons were also strategically positioned, underscoring the state’s readiness to respond swiftly to any disruptions.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja downplayed the situation, terming Gachagua’s return an “ordinary” event. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen echoed the sentiment, cautioning against attempts to incite chaos and warning that the law would be applied firmly against anyone seeking to disrupt order.
For travelers, the morning unfolded without incident. Check-in counters, security screening, and boarding processes proceeded with efficiency, while arriving passengers experienced the usual flow through immigration and baggage collection.
All attention now shifts to midday, when Gachagua’s scheduled arrival is expected. The moment is likely to test both the mobilizing power of his political allies and the government’s commitment to maintaining calm at the country’s busiest airport.
As of Thursday morning, however, JKIA exuded its familiar rhythm of calm efficiency, with authorities assuring the public that services would remain uninterrupted regardless of the political undertones surrounding the day.
