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Why police withdrew Azimio politicians security


Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome on Sunday, March 26, 2023, said the National Police Service (NPS) had withdrawn the security of all political leaders who are taking part in opposition-led demonstrations.

Mr Koome, who was addressing the media said =there was no way he could allow officers to guard leaders who were asking civilians to throw stones at officers who will be deployed to deal with the demonstrators.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga, has called for demonstrations across the country twice a week, in a move he hopes will put pressure on President William Ruto to address the high cost of living and discuss electoral reforms.

“There is no way I will accept officers to provide security to politicians who are throwing stones at their colleagues. All I will do is take the officers from them” said Mr Koome.

Already, security officers have been withdrawn from political leaders who are believed to be participating in the demonstrations.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo has meanwhile told off the government over the move to withdraw security from the political leaders.

Several lawmakers allied to the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition claim the government has withdrawn its security over involvement in anti-government protests.

National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi said his security was withdrawn moments after his arrest outside the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Monday, March 20.

Nominated MP Nyakerario Mayaka also alleged that several other legislators had been affected for taking part in the demonstrations aimed at pushing for electoral and economic reforms.

After holding what he described as successful protests across the country on March 20, 2023, Mr Odinga, the Azimio la Umoja leader, announced he will lead Kenyans in holding demos around the country on Mondays and Thursdays each week.

Mr Odinga further accused President William Ruto of corruption and not fulfilling his pre-election promises.

President Ruto has responded by describing Mr Odinga as an economic terrorist, warning that his actions of causing mayhem will not be tolerated.

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