Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued summons to all elected leaders connected to the recent political violence witnessed in Migori County.
This move comes in the wake of separate incidents during a funeral service and a church gathering, where peaceful events turned chaotic due to alleged collusion between local politicians and law enforcement.
According to ODM, one of the incidents happened on Friday, May 3rd, 2024, in Uriri Sub County, where mourners at a funeral service were unexpectedly met with tear gas and violence.
Further, ODM states that footages emerged, revealing a coordinated disruption that resulted in injuries and property damaged.
“Our attention has been drawn to the disturbing incident on Friday 3rd May 2024, in Uriri Sub County, Migori County where a funeral service, was disrupted after police lobbed teargas canisters at peaceful mourners, occasioning injuries and destruction to property,” said ODM.
ODM Raises Concerns Over Growing Political Violence Trend
Just two days later, similar scenes transpired in Bomachoge-Borabu during a church service, further fueling concerns over the deteriorating situation in the region.
“The pattern seems to have been set, when exactly two days later, (Sunday 5th May 2024), similar scenes were witnessed in Bomachoge-Borabu, where political privilege exercised by regime apologists turned ugly during a Church service,” read ODM statement in part.
In a strongly worded statement, ODM condemned the use of police forces for political ends, pointing out the need of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.
The party called for thorough investigation into the incidents, demanding accountability for all involved, regardless of their political affiliations.
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Furthermore, ODM expressed concern over the inflammatory rhetoric employed by some local politicians, which it deemed to have contributed to the escalation of violence.
ODM Summons all Leaders Involved in Chaos
As part of its efforts to address the situation, the Raila Odinga-led party has summoned all elected leaders affiliated with the party who were present at the events in question.
They are required to appear before party leadership at Chungwa House, the party headquarters, on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024, at 10:00 am.
The purpose of the summons according to ODM statement signed by Edwin Sifuna, is to explain the role, if any, that these leaders played in the incidents and to hold them accountable for their actions.
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“Via this statement, the party here-by summons all elected and nominated ODM leaders present at these two functions to appear before the party leadership at 10:00 am on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024, at the party headquarters (Chungwa House) to explain their role, if any, in these unfortunate events,” read the ODM statement.
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