Eric Omondi detained at JKIA

By Robert Mutasi

Comedian and entertainer Eric Omondi admitted that on Wednesday evening, November 15, 2024, he was detained at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as he attempted to board his flight to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

He was en-route to attend a launch of Skyward Express' maiden flight to Dar es Salaam where he serves as a brand ambassador and made his shock in the occurrence known.

He revealed that it all happened at the immigration desk when he was about to clear and present his passport.

Immigration officials then told him that a stop order had been issued against him, preventing him from traveling outside the country.

A move that was followed by his detention, raising many questions as to what could have been the reasons behind the restriction.

"I have been arrested at JKIA just before I boarded a flight to Dar es Salaam," Omondi confirmed in a statement shortly after the incident. "I am Skyward Express brand ambassador, and we were launching the inaugural Dar es Salaam flight. When I gave them my passport, the immigration officers said there is a stop order and that I am not allowed to travel and must be detained."

Details about the stop order are yet to be clear, since the police have not given any formal communication on the same.

However, speculations have been going on over the reasons for his travel restriction. Omondi has of late been in the news over his performances and for having a candid, analytical view of several social and political problems currently faced by Kenyans.

Omondi's arrest went viral on social media immediately, with fans and followers rallying behind the comedian in droves, seeking answers.

Skyward Express has not yet commented on the incident or how it will affect the announcement of its new route.

The airline had collaborated with Omondi in running a campaign to create awareness and generate interest in the expansion of its regional operations.

The development brings the number of public figures in Kenya who have fallen into legal and bureaucratic trouble in the last couple of months and have sparked public debates on the various issues at play, including governance and justice.