The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, has vowed to take stern action against police officers who interrupted ODM leader Raila Odinga’s birthday party. IG Japheth Koome said it was unlawful to disperse Azimio supporters. In a statement to newsrooms on Sunday, January 7, Koome said administrative actions would be taken against officers who tear-gassed Raila’s supporters, who had gathered at the National Archives to celebrate the ODM leader’s 79th birthday. What IG Koome said about police violence Koome said the action by the police was unwarranted as Raila’s supporters were only staging peaceful celebrations. “The National Police Service takes cognisance of the unwarranted violent dispersion of members of the public who were holding a peaceful celebration in Nairobi today 7/7/2024. The Inspector General, IG Japhet Koome, has directed for stern administrative action to be taken against the Officers who engaged in the unlawful action,” the statement read. According to the IG, the National Police Service is committed to remaining politically neutral while discharging its mandate. “The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to remain politically neutral in execution of its mandate of protecting life and property,” the statement added. How Azimio leaders reacted As reported earlier, leaders allied to the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party and other Kenyans took to social media to condemn the action by the police. On Sunday, January 7, police officers tear-gassed supporters of the former prime minister, who had gathered around Nairobi Archives for the cake-cutting ceremony. Those who had gathered were forced to flee the area, and the officers who were lobbing tear gas canisters ordered them to leave. Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi said the government was scared because Kenyans are angry with President William Ruto’s administration. “The police turned up and tear-gassed our supporters. The government is scared because of tension and Kenyans who have no money as schools reopen,” Wanyonyi said. Edwin Sifuna said: “This is the height of pettiness. Kama ulitaka ukatiwe keki si ungesema tu.”
by Amos Khaemba