NAIROBI, Kenya — IG Douglas Kanja has assured organisers and attendees of adequate security ahead of the upcoming Linda Mwananchi rally scheduled for April 26 in Kisumu, even as political tensions escalate within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Appearing before the Senate Standing Committee on National Security on Thursday, Kanja said security agencies had identified individuals linked to disruptions of political gatherings and were actively pursuing them.
“The meeting in Kisumu, I want to ensure that the meeting will be fully secured. But I also equally request from the organisers that we follow the law,” Kanja said.
He emphasized that organisers share responsibility for maintaining order, citing Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which guarantees the right to assemble while requiring peaceful conduct.
“Those who want to attend are free to attend. That is the position of the National Police Service,” he added.
Kanja took a firm stance against violent disruptions, warning that the use of hired gangs and armed intimidation at political events would be decisively dealt with.
He revealed that investigations had mapped out networks behind such incidents, including financiers and organisers.
“This issue of goons is going to stop. We have clearly investigated… we have seen where they come from, who funds, who does what,” he said.
The Inspector General also condemned the recent attack on Godfrey Osotsi, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice.
“What happened to Senator Osotsi was not right… Everyone who committed an offence will have their time in court,” he stated.
The assurances come amid rising political activity ahead of the Kisumu rally, which is expected to draw key figures including James Orengo, Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino, and Caroli Omondi.
The event is being organised by a breakaway faction linked to ODM under the “Linda Mwananchi” banner, highlighting deepening internal divisions within the party.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino maintained that the rally would proceed despite alleged intimidation. “We will not bow to state intimidation. The Kisumu rally will proceed as planned,” he said.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi also struck a defiant tone, warning against attempts to disrupt the gathering. “We are not afraid… Kisumu is Baba’s stronghold, and we must continue our journey,” he said.
Speaking separately, Siaya Governor James Orengo said the rally would focus on strengthening political unity in the region.
“We need to form the government, not campaign for leaders from other parties,” he said during a radio interview.
The rally comes amid a growing supremacy contest between the Linda Mwananchi faction and the rival “Linda Ground” group, which is associated with Oburu Oginga. Most Kisumu MPs are said to align with the latter faction.
Meanwhile, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has maintained a cautious stance, avoiding open alignment with either side despite attending select government functions.
The political developments follow a recent consultative meeting by the Linda Ground faction in Kisumu East that reaffirmed support for President William Ruto, signaling shifting alliances within the region.
Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has also called for calm, urging respect for constitutional freedoms while emphasizing adherence to public order regulations.
“Every Kenyan has the right to assemble and engage freely… but those planning public events must follow laid-down procedures,” Omollo said.
