IG Koome Orders Action Against Police Who Tear-Gassed Raila Birthday Party
On Sunday, Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome directed the implementation of “strong administrative measures” against law enforcement officers responsible for deploying tear gas on Raila Odinga’s supporters during the opposition leader’s birthday festivities at Nairobi city center.
Leaders aligned with the opposition claimed that the tear gas was used to disrupt the event, leading them to relocate the planned cake-cutting ceremony organized to commemorate the 79th birthday of the former prime minister.
In a statement issued later in the evening, the National Police Service (NPS) characterized the officers’ conduct as unauthorized.
“The National Police Service takes cognizance 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,” it read.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to remain politically neutral in execution of its mandate of protecting life and property.”
Odinga, who heads the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya coalition, was reportedly not present during the incident, as indicated by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who mentioned that Odinga was away in Malindi, Kilifi County.
Citizen Digital observed individuals adorned in the opposition coalition’s distinctive purple and orange colors singing birthday songs around a cake set up under a tent near the Kenya National Archives in the central business district. Tear gas canisters were deployed, causing disruption as they exploded near the main table where the cake and cutlery were arranged. The crowd and nearby traders hurriedly dispersed.
Despite attempts by a woman dressed in purple to salvage the cake from the smoke, another tear gas canister was thrown, landing directly on the cake. In response, she threw the cake away and left the scene, while two black SUVs were seen leaving.
The cakes were adorned with messages such as ‘Cut VAT,’ ‘Cut Turnover Tax,’ and ‘Cut Housing Levy,’ alongside a miniature Kenyan flag on top. Azimio leaders later addressed the media at Serena Hotel, indicating that they had relocated the cake-cutting ceremony to that venue.
“No one can prevent people from cutting a cake. The tear gas is a fear the government has about Odinga,” Musyoka added.
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IG Koome Orders Action Against Police Who Tear-Gassed Raila Birthday Party
