According to sources briefed on the operation, the meeting was held at night under strict secrecy rules. Only a few lawmakers and senior staff were aware of the plan.
Security officials warned that any leak would attract serious punishment. Staff involved were instructed to remain silent until the process was complete.
The closed-door meeting began at 10 pm and ended shortly before midnight. Odinga’s body arrived at Parliament at 5 am on October 17.
Intelligence reports warned that large crowds could threaten safety inside Parliament. Officials also feared a repeat of earlier unrest seen during Gen Z protests.
One official said the risk of an invasion of Parliament was real. Another stated that the body had to be brought in for historical reasons.
Parliamentary leadership insisted Odinga had to be recorded in parliamentary history as he previously served as Lang’ata MP and Prime Minister.
Police commanders based in Nairobi attended the planning meeting. Their role focused on security timing and controlled movement.
Organisers believed most mourners would gather at Nyayo Stadium early morning. That assumption reduced the risk of crowds noticing unusual activity in the city centre.
Only 36 MPs and 12 senators were informed early. They were instructed to arrive at 7 am.
Later at 3 am, another small group of lawmakers was alerted. They were advised to avoid public queues at Nyayo Stadium.
Sources said lawmakers active on social media were excluded from early notice. Police patrols were strengthened before the body was moved.
About 163 MPs led by President William Ruto viewed the body. Odinga’s family was present during the brief parliamentary ceremony.
National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge confirmed the secrecy. He said the move protected public interest and parliamentary order.
The body was later transferred to Nyayo Stadium. A national funeral service followed shortly after dawn.
https://www.facebook.com/100064590168030/posts/1353155980180728/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v
0 Comments