Kenya Airports Authority Refutes Sifuna’s Claims of Security Lapses at Kisumu Airport

Kenya Airports Authority Refutes Sifuna’s Claims of Security Lapses at Kisumu Airport

Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has dismissed claims by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other Linda Mwananchi tour organisers that armed individuals had barricaded Kisumu International Airport during their planned landing on Saturday, February 21.

In a statement released on Sunday, February 22, KAA described the allegations as inaccurate and insisted that airport premises remained secure throughout the period in question.

“KAA wishes to clarify that at no time were unauthorised individuals, groups, or organised unlawful elements present within the airport premises,” the authority stated.

Background of the Allegations

The controversy emerged after Senator Sifuna alleged on social media that his team had to re-route their travel plans due to the presence of armed goons at Kisumu International Airport. He claimed that the incident compromised passenger safety and accused the Ministry of Interior of sponsoring intimidation tactics against opposition leaders.

However, KAA issued a rejoinder, clarifying that the images shared by Sifuna’s faction were taken outside the airport perimeter and therefore beyond its security jurisdiction.

“KAA further notes that images circulating online were outside the airport perimeter and beyond KAA’s security jurisdiction,” the statement added.

Security Measures

According to KAA, the Airport Security Committee and the Border Management Committee (BMC) worked jointly with other security agencies to maintain full situational awareness and operational control during the period in question.

The authority emphasized that airport operations remained normal, secure, and uninterrupted, with no breach of passenger safety, aircraft operations, or airport infrastructure.

“We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of aviation security, safety, and operational integrity in accordance with national regulations and international aviation standards,” KAA assured.

Political Context

The dispute comes in the wake of the Linda Mwananchi rally in Kakamega County, which was marred by violence. Police reportedly lobbed teargas at crowds before and after opposition leaders arrived, though the rally proceeded despite disruptions. One person was confirmed dead following confrontations between rival factions.

Sifuna has repeatedly accused the government of using state-sponsored groups to intimidate opposition supporters, while Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has countered that opposition leaders have failed to properly notify authorities of their rallies, thereby complicating security arrangements.

Public Assurance

KAA reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority and urged the public to disregard misleading reports. The authority emphasized that Kisumu International Airport continues to operate under strict security protocols aligned with international aviation standards.

“Airport operations remained normal, secure, and uninterrupted, with no security breach, disturbance, or compromise to passenger safety,” the statement concluded.

Conclusion

The Kenya Airports Authority’s firm denial of Sifuna’s claims underscores the growing tension between opposition leaders and state institutions over security and freedom of assembly. While investigations into the Kakamega rally violence continue, KAA has sought to reassure passengers and stakeholders that Kisumu International Airport remains safe and fully compliant with international security standards.

ALSO READ: Sifuna Alleges Being Targeted at Kisumu Airport During Linda Mwananchi Tour

Kenya Airports Authority Refutes Sifuna’s Claims of Security Lapses at Kisumu Airport