Bungoma county police have declined the Monday March 27 demonstration notice by the county’s wing of opposition Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party.
Bungoma Police Station OCS David Odongo, said they turned down the notice for security purposes.
Moreover, the OCS noted that security organs are in possession of intelligence showing that there could be escalation of violence during the demonstrations due to supposed counter attacks by rival groups.
As such, Mr. Odongo urged the opposition team to postpone the protests to another day to prevent possible bloodshed.
“I acknowledge receipt of your notice of intention to hold procession dated 23rd, March, 2023 within Bungoma township on 27th March, 2023 and climaxing with presentation of a memorandum to the Governor Bungoma County and finally to the County Commissioner Bungoma County,” the OCS said.
“I wish to humbly inform you that the request has been declined due to security reasons; we have intelligence of counter attacks from other interested groups which may result into malicious damage to property and loss of lives. Therefore, you’re humbly advised to reschedule the demonstration to another day.” He added.
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OCS Odongo noted that the opposition and their supporters will be arrested if they proceed with the planned protests because they will have acted in contravention of the Constitution.
“Engaging in the demonstration will be considered as contravention of Section 5 (6) of the Public Order Act Cap 56 LOK and the procession shall be dispersed immediately and the organizers arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” stated the OCS.
Moreover, the Bungoma OCS urged the opposition team to present their complaints to the county assembly, where they will later be sent to the Governor.
“However, I wish to advise you to present the memorandum to the county assembly of Bungoma, Committee for Justice and Legal Affairs for onward transmission to the Governor or the officials themselves can peacefully present the same to Governor and to the County Commissioner.” Odongo added.
Nonetheless, the opposition team led by the demonstration organizer Martin Wanyonyi, stated that the picketing will continue as planned.
