ODM Leader Raila Odinga Summons Party Members Over Chaotic Scenes in Kisii, Migori
ODM leader Raila Odinga has called all party members who were present at the Sunday church event in Kisii, which became disorderly, to a meeting.
In a statement denouncing the incident and the disturbance at a Migori funeral service on Friday, the party directed these leaders to come to Chungwa House in Nairobi on May 8.
They are to clarify their involvement in the two incidents.
“Through this statement, the party requests all elected and nominated officials who were present at these events to report to the party leadership to account for their participation in these regrettable incidents,” read the statement signed by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
At the fundraiser at Etono grounds in Bomachoge Borabu, police had to use tear gas at the pulpit.
The event, uniting five PAG churches, was attended by six MPs from different political parties.
South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro, also the National Assembly’s Chief Whip, led the fundraiser.
ODM MPs Obadiah Barongo and Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi were there.
Other attendees included MPs Japhet Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North), Alfa Miruka (Bomachoge Chache), Patrick Osero (Borabu), and several pro-UDA ward reps.
Trouble began when opposition leaders criticized the government, provoking UDA leaders and supporters.
Tension escalated when Kibagendi spoke on stage.
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His microphone was taken away at one point.
When the situation worsened, a police officer deployed tear gas, causing attendees to scatter.
Sifuna also requested the Inspector General of police to investigate the police’s use of tear gas on mourners in Migori and hold those responsible accountable.
He advised politicians to avoid using inflammatory language, noting that it contributed to the violence.
“We ask the police to ensure officers understand their role doesn’t include acting as judges in political party events,” he said.
The Secretary General stated that video evidence suggests “the attack was organized and coordinated due to collaboration between certain local politicians and the police.”
He did not specify if the party had reported the matter to the police.
Police had not made a statement regarding the incidents.
ODM Leader Raila Odinga Summons Party Members Over Chaotic Scenes in Kisii, Migori