Kenyan protesters, who have been actively participating in anti-government demonstrations, are now planning to take their protests to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. This new phase of the movement, known as #OccupyJKIA, aims to increase pressure on President William Ruto to address their demands.
On Tuesday morning, heavy traffic was reported at the airport as travelers hurried to undergo extensive security checks and catch their flights on time. The previous evening, the National Police Service issued a warning to protesters about attempting to access the airport, which is designated as a protected area in Kenya.
Acting Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja acknowledged the right of Kenyans to protest but emphasized the legal restrictions governing access to protected areas. “The Protected Areas Act Cap 204 Laws of Kenya prohibits unauthorized entry into designated protected areas, which include the LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant, and Petroleum depots at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA),” Kanja stated.
He also noted that the Kenya Civil Aviation Act makes it an offense to trespass on land that is part of a government aerodrome, with penalties enforced by law.
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In anticipation of the protests, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) on Monday evening advised passengers to prepare for extended security procedures, while Kenya Airways (KQ), the national carrier, recommended that travelers arrive four hours before their departure time.
"Due to heightened security checks and protocols at JKIA, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport early to avoid potential delays in catching their flights. Kindly contact your respective airline for the latest flight information," the airport operator announced on its social media channels.
