What are policemen up to in Jacaranda? Babu Owino asks
National Police Service (NPS) has come under scrutiny from Embakasi East Member of Parliament Mr Paul Ongili Owino, also known as Babu Owino, for deploying police officers to Jacaranda Grounds on Monday, April 3, 2023.
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The Jacaranda Grounds, located within Embakasi East Constituency, is a popular field used for political rallies in Nairobi.
Mr. Owino took to his social media accounts to question why police officers were present at the grounds after Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga called off the demonstrations the previous day.
“What are policemen doing at Jacaranda grounds yet demonstrations were called off?” Mr. Owino asked.
Mr. Odinga canceled the weekly opposition protests before the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader announced a mega procession scheduled for today.
The cancellation came shortly after President Dr. William Ruto’s address to the nation, where he appealed to Mr. Odinga to call off the protests and engage in dialogue to address the issues raised.
Mr. Odinga welcomed the appeal but set an ultimatum on calling off the demonstrations.
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Mr. Owino cautioned the National Police Service against deploying security officers at Jacaranda Grounds, warning that he would take action if they did not remove their vehicles from the area.
“Mtoe hizo lorry zenu hapo before I change my mind na msinizoe,” the MP cautioned through his Twitter account.
Mr. Odinga has led several demonstrations in Nairobi, challenging the government to address the issues raised by the opposition.
Unfortunately, destruction of property and businesses has been reported following these demonstrations, with cases of deaths and injuries reported after Azimio supporters engaged in running battles with a contingent of police officers.
Opposition and human rights organizations have condemned officers’ excessive use of force and threatened to sue those involved.
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