Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has moved to calm fears over security ahead of the Linda Mwananchi rally set for Kisumu, saying police are fully prepared to handle the event and maintain order throughout the political gathering.
Speaking while appearing before the Senate Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations on April 23, 2026, Kanja said the National Police Service has already rolled out adequate security arrangements to protect both participants and the public during the rally.
Kanja , at the same time reminded organisers of their duty under the law, citing Article 37 of the Constitution, which protects the right to peaceful assembly but also places responsibility on those organising events to ensure they remain calm and orderly.
“On the planned meeting in Kisumu, I want to assure the committee that it will be fully secured. However, I also urge the organisers to comply with the law, including Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to assemble but also places responsibility on organisers to ensure peace,” Kanja said.
“If we all work together, everything will proceed smoothly. From where I sit, I assure you that the meeting will be safe and secure, and those who wish to attend are free to do so. That remains the position of the National Police Service.”
The IG also condemned rising incidents of political hostility, pointing to the attack on Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, describing it as unacceptable and calling for accountability through the justice system.
“I want to address what happened to Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. It is not right. It is very unfortunate… At the end of the day, anyone who committed an offence will have their day in court,” he said.
He further raised concern over the involvement of armed groups and hired disruptors in political activities, warning that security agencies are already closing in on those responsible.
“This issue of guns and goons is going to stop. We have investigated and established where they come from, who funds them and how they operate,” he said, adding that action will follow.
He reaffirmed that the National Police Service remains committed to maintaining law and order, urging political actors and organisers to work closely with security agencies to prevent violence during public gatherings.
The assurances come as the Linda Mwananchi movement prepares for a series of rallies in the Nyanza region over the weekend.
Led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, the team is expected to begin its engagements in Vihiga on Saturday before proceeding to Kisumu on Sunday, April 26, for a major rally anticipated to attract several political leaders.
Among those expected to attend are Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.
The rallies are part of a growing wave of political mobilisation across the country, with leaders increasingly taking their messages to the grassroots as debates over governance and economic issues continue to shape the political landscape.
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