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Show of might as Ruto is received by top security bosses at JKIA


President William Ruto on Thursday arrived back in the country and was received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in an usual way.

The presidents plane touched down a few minutes after 9am and at hand to receive him was Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Chief of Defence Forces Robert Kibochi, Inspector-General of Police Japhet Koome and other senior military officers.

The president, who has been on a four-day tour of Germany and Belgium, was accorded a red carpet reception with armed ceremonial presidential officers according him a guard of honour right from the plane, with head of state being escorted by Chief of Defence Forces Robert Kibochi.

President William Ruto is received by his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after he returned to country from a four-day trip on March 30, 2023. PHOTO | COURTESY

Normally, such displays are witnessed when the country is observing a national celebration or a dignitary like a president from another country is visiting the country.

President Ruto’s show of security might at the airport came on the day when the opposition continued its countrywide protests over the cost of living and IEBC selection panel grievances.

Also read: Ruto returns as Raila marshals troops for maandamano Thursday

The president has, in the recent past, vowed to ensure that law and order is observed, even as Kenyans exercise their right of picketing.

On the other hand, Interior Cabinet Secretary, Prof Kithure Kindiki pointed out that the police have done everything within the law to protect the lives and property of non-protestors and third parties.

Prof Kindiki said the regular protestors who have continued to engage in violent, chaotic and disorderly conduct are endangering national security.

President William Ruto is received by top military and police bosses at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after he returned to country from a four-day trip on March 30, 2023. PHOTO | COURTESY

“The current portrait of anarchy, and the unfolding criminal madness must stop. Only firm enforcement of the law stands between us and lawlessness and full-blown chaos. Any aggravation of the prevailing situation would certainly set back the Country. We must halt the descent,” he said.

Kindiki pointed out that he will issue new policy directives to Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome Friday that will ensure public safety during demonstrations. He said that if demonstrations are not peaceful there shall be no demonstrations.

Also read: Raila’s major routes blocked by police in anticipation of Maandamano Thursday

Meanwhile, on Thursday morning anti-riot police officers were stationed on all major roads within Nairobi and along the highways.

President William Ruto inspects a guard of honour at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after he arrived back in the country on March 30, 2023. PHOTO | COURTESY

Protester were experienced in Kibra and Mathare slums after they begun lighting bonfires from tyres as anti-government demonstrations entered the third day. In Mathare, there were running battles between protesters and the police from as early as 10:30am.

In Kisumu, protesters have taken to the streets after Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o made an about-turn, over decision to suspend the demonstrations.

Also read: Pure nonsense! Babu Owino rubbishes Alice Ng’ang’a claims on Raila’s financiers