IG Koome confirms withdrawing security for Azimio la Umoja leaders over demos

Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome on Sunday confirmed that he had withdrawn the security of leaders in Azimio la Umoja engaging in the anti-government demonstrations.

Koome accused the said opposition leaders of inciting violence in the country and attacking the police while guarded by armed police officers during the countrywide Azimio demonstrations.

“If you are a leader, IG will ensure your safety. But how come you’re throwing stones at me while armed officers stand behind you? I will undoubtedly take my officers,” said Koome.

The IG made the confirmation as he declared illegal the planned second round of anti-government demonstrations spearheaded by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“We have heard others say they will bring chaos to Nairobi tomorrow. Nothing like that will happen. We are ready as the police to ensure there’s calm across the entire country. If you plan to cause violence and you are armed with offensive weapons like stones, machetes and batons, you will face the law!” Koome warned.

He appealed to Kenyans to report to their work stations as normal guaranteeing them of their security saying the police will not permit anyone to disturb the peace in the country.

“Kenyans should go to work tomorrow and the police will ensure their safety,” said the IG.

But Azimio leaders led by Raila Odinga vowed to go ahead with their demos demanding lowering of living costs, opening of IEBC servers and reconstitution of the IEBC Selection Panel.

Koome argued that the issues being raised by the proponents of the anti-government protests are political and should be solved politically without interfering with other Kenyans.

“I will put you in a Land Cruiser regardless of your status. I will not arrest anyone in Prados; I have enough Land Cruisers,” warned IG Koome.