Supporters chase away police officers who tried to disrupt opposition rallies in Malava

Tension was high earlier Friday in Kakamega County when police attempted to block a political rally organized by the United Opposition.

The attempt, however, was thwarted after angry supporters confronted and chased away the officers.

This as pro-government leaders from the region rallied behind UDA parliamentary candidate David Ndakwa, and pushed to solidify the community’s political base ahead of the November 27 Malava by-election.

A standoff ensued in Malava town as opposition supporters rallying behind their candidate Seth Panyako gathered to set up for a campaign meeting when police officers arrived, for the second time, to halt preparations.

“Kenya Kwanza ilifanya mkutano wao hata wanafunzi wakiwa shule hakuna mtu alilalamika…leo hii tunafanya mkutano wa upinzani wamepiga wafuasi wa upinzani,” John Toboa, area resident, said.

Faith Mukangai said: “Polisi tumewaleta mchunge watu wa Malava au mfurushe watu wa Malava?”

Opposition supporters condemned the incident, accusing the government of attempting to sabotage the political gathering which eventually proceeded.

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said: “Najua wako na mpango alhamisi ijayo msipige kura iwe ni teargas…”

Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’I added: “Tujiunge pamoja tupigie Seth Panyako kura…Wakenya waone tumeungana…”

As the opposition campaigned, leaders allied to Kenya Kwanza asked locals to vote for UDA candidate David Ndakwa. They accused the opposition of inciting violence.

Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi said: “Kutakuwa na usalama wa kutosha siku ya kupiga kura, ili mkienda kupiga kura hakuna mtu atadhulumu wazee au kina mama.”

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula said: “Tunazungumza lugha ya kuleta watu wetu pamoja, hakuna mtu anatusi mtu, sisi tunataka kukamilisha safari baba yetu alianza.”

President Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet said: “Wasitishe watu wa Malava, wasilete goons Malava…Ndakwa aingie Bunge.”