Governor Kidero calls for calm as Nasa addresses polls issue

Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has called on residents to avoid violence as National Super Alliance (Nasa) leaders try to find the way forward over the contentious election outcome.

At ACK St Mark’s Church in Westlands, Dr Kidero urged Nasa supporters to express their frustration over the outcome with civility.

"I am urging Nairobi residents more particularly in Kibra, Kangemi, Kawangware, Dandora, Kariobangi North and South and Mathare to be tolerant and stop throwing stones at the police.

"Once we die we are the ones who are going to transport each other and not the police," Dr Kidero said.

POLICE

He also cautioned police officers against using excessive force when assuaging chaotic situations.

"Police should not use excessive force and I would also like to urge the government to act with tolerance and follow the law as provided.

"We have been speaking to community leaders telling them that they do not need to react," he said.

He equally advised his fellow leaders to eschew making incendiary remarks.

"I would like to urge our leaders not to say inflammatory statements that will make people react in a manner not good for their lives."

NASA
He said that Nasa leaders are exploring different avenues provided for by the legal systems to resolve the election dispute.

Nasa, led by Mr Raila Odinga, had even before the announcement of the presidential results on Friday been claiming that the process was compromised.

However, the electoral agency under the leadership of Mr Wafula Chebukati has refuted such allegations.

"Our leaders are doing what they can as provided for in our judicial and constitutional systems to address the issue. So let us be calm and give the leaders time," Dr Kidero said.

READ: Raila disputes preliminary results

READ: Nasa results incorrect, premature: IEBC

EXCESSIVE FORCE

On claims against police for use of excessive force during demonstrations, Dr Kidero said he asked Inspector General Joseph Boinnet and Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho to ensure police officers act within the law.

"I did speak to the Inspector-General and the Interior Principal Secretary yesterday and I requested them that the presence of the police in a menacing manner provokes the residents.

"I am glad that they heard my plea and they retreated yesterday and from the time we have not seen the fights like we had seen before," he said.

During a rally in Kibra on Sunday, Mr Odinga said they will issue the next step on Tuesday.