UPDATE: Normal operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been fully restored following the earlier temporary suspension.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has been temporarily closed.
In a statement, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said the airport was closed due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Raila Odinga.
"Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) informs the public that operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) have been suspended due to an ongoing security situation following the arrival of the remains of the late Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya," part of the statement reads.
The authority added that a large number of mourners gained access to restricted areas at the airport, forcing security teams to act immediately to restore order.
Travellers and members of the public are urged to remain calm and avoid the airport area until normal operations resume.
KCAA, in the statement, apologised for the inconvenience caused, asking the public to cooperate during the brief suspension.
The closure was necessitated after large masses trooped into the airport to escort the body of Raila Odinga. These led to the body being held up at the airport for several hours.
The entourage led by the Kenya Defence Forces was to escort the body to Lee Funeral Home before being moved to Parliament for a public viewing.
However, the public viewing has been moved to Kasarani Stadium after masses poured to Parliament, closing the Parliament Road.
It had earlier been communicated that the viewing will expectedly to take place from 12 noon.
"Due to the surge in the number of mourners, the viewing of the body of HE Raila Amolo Odinga has been moved from the Parliament Buildings to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," the statement by ODM read in part.
"Members of the public are advised to proceed to Kasarani, where there shall be enough space and time to view the body."
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