Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Raymond Omollo, visited Kisumu yesterday, issuing stern warnings to political gangs planning to disrupt a Linda Mwananchi meeting. He promised tough action against paid thugs inciting violence in Nyanza. The ODM-affiliated group's rally, led by James Orengo, Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino, is scheduled for April 26.
Dr Raymond Omollo landed in Kisumu yesterday, reinforcing the government's commitment to combat politically sponsored gangs threatening peace.
His visit came just two weeks after Senator Godfrey Osotsi of Vihiga was attacked at a restaurant, drawing criticism toward security organs.
Omollo stressed that all political parties have the right to hold meetings anywhere in Kenya, provided they follow legal procedures.
"Ikiwa kuna nia ya kufanya mkutano wa hadhara, maandamano au kuwasilisha malalamishi, polisi lazima wafahamishwe mapema, na kila Mkenya yuko huru kushiriki na kukutana na wengine hadharani popote nchini, si Kisumu pekee," he said.
The Linda Mwananchi faction within ODM claims plans by goons to disrupt them, but Omollo assured freedom within the law.
"Tunalinda haki za kila Mkenya, iwe unapigania jambo fulani, unaunga mkono au unapinga serikali," he added.
Fears of sponsored gangs have been rising in the Nyanza region.
