Interior PS Omollo urges lawful protests, assures security at Kenya-Tanzania border

Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has urged Kenyans to adhere to the law when holding demonstrations, amid reports of tension and disruptions at the Namanga border following protests in neighbouring Tanzania.

Speaking on Thursday, Dr. Omollo said Kenya has clear laws governing public demonstrations and appealed for calm as security agencies continue to monitor the situation along the border.

“As a country, we have laws and regulations that guide the conduct of public demonstrations and protests. My appeal is that anyone who might want to or be engaged in any kind of protests or demonstrations, let’s do what the laws allow us,” said Dr. Omollo.

The PS assured that security officers at Kenya’s points of entry and exit were adequately prepared to handle any incidents that may arise and to ensure the smooth movement of people and goods across the border.

“Our officers are competent enough to deal with any situations. If there will be any inconveniences in terms of movement of cargo and people, I believe that the officers at our points of entry and exit must be able to advise those who are moving so that we don’t endanger lives or businesses,” he added.

His remarks come amid reports of unrest on the Kenyan side of the Namanga border after protests broke out in Tanzania during Wednesday’s election and continued into Thursday.

Dr. Omollo further expressed goodwill towards Tanzania, saying Kenya respects its neighbour’s sovereignty and trusts that authorities there will manage their internal affairs appropriately.

“I’m sure our friends in Tanzania also have ways and mechanisms of dealing with their issues. They have been our friendly neighbours and we wish them well as they go through their processes,” he said.