The incident unfolded amid heavy police presence stationed around the residence to control access during ongoing funeral preparations.
According to witnesses, security officers manning the gate stopped the legislator’s convoy and instructed them to turn back, citing strict access protocols.
Despite attempts to explain his visit, Atandi was reportedly barred from proceeding beyond the first security checkpoint.
Sources close to the funeral organizing committee indicated that only accredited guests and officials were being allowed into the premises.
The tight security measures were said to be part of efforts to maintain order as high-profile leaders and dignitaries continued to arrive for the burial events.
Atandi, a close ally of Raila Odinga, expressed disappointment over the incident, terming it unnecessary and disrespectful. He questioned why elected leaders from the region were being excluded from paying their respects at the home of a man they considered their political mentor.
The police, however, maintained that the restrictions were not personal but part of standard security arrangements. Officers stated that they were acting under directives to ensure safety and avoid congestion at the family compound ahead of the official state funeral.
The confrontation sparked reactions among locals, who condemned what they saw as mishandling of leaders associated with the Azimio coalition. Many expressed concerns that the incident highlighted underlying tensions between security authorities and some opposition figures during the mourning period.
By Friday evening, the area remained heavily guarded, with several roads leading to Opoda farm sealed off. The funeral committee is expected to issue a statement clarifying the access protocols and addressing growing discontent among local leaders.
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