New Announcement on Raila's Grand Reception After Police Ban

The National Super Alliance (NASA) on Wednesday vowed to carry on with the grand reception for Opposition Leader Raila Odinga at the JKIA on Friday despite a warning from the police.

In a statement, NASA noted that it was their right to welcome their hero and as such, the one million people's match was still on.

“Our clients have noted the content of a public statement purportedly issued by your office and wish to state that access to the airport to receive persons and more so national heroes and/or leaders is indeed a valid reason to enter and constitute legitimate business at the airport so that your officers would have no right to deny anyone entry,” NASA' s response read in part.

The Opposition coalition made the remarks following a letter from the police directing NASA supporters against receiving Mr Odinga at JKIA on Friday.

[caption caption="Opposition Leader Raila Odinga addressing a rally"][/caption]

In a statement released by the National Police Service, Deputy Inspector General George Kinoti on Wednesday noted that the airport is a protected area hence access is open to bonafide travelers and people who have legitimate business there.

"The attention of the National Police Service has been drawn to press reports to the effect that some politicians are mobilizing crowds to march to the JKIA to receive Raila Odinga on Friday 17th upon his return from an overseas trip.

"Anyone wishing to organise a public procession or meeting must comply with the Public Order Act (2016). JKIA is a protected area hence access is open to bonafide travelers and all others with legitimate business at the airport who must be subjected at all times to the standard security measures.

"It is therefore not advisable to mobilise huge crowds to travel to that facility as it risks jeopardising the safety of air operators, passengers and other airport users," read the statement.

Kinoti reiterated that those without valid reasons will not be allowed into the facility.

[caption caption="File image of NASA Leaders during a meet the people tour"][/caption]

The Opposition has been calling on its supporters to turn up in large numbers on Friday to welcome the former Prime Minister who has been abroad for the last 10 days.

"We welcome all Kenyans to this grand Thursday rally and the arrival party on Friday. All these are part of our continuing journey of ensuring electoral justice and putting an end to the evil culture of sham elections with pre-determined outcomes,” Siaya Senator James Orengo stated.