Wetang’ula gets police green light to unveil bid

Police on Thursday gave a go-ahead to next month’s planned launch of Bungoma Senator Moses Wetang’ula’s presidential nomination bid in Kakamega.

Western region Police Chief Moses Ombati warned against any attempts by youths to disrupt the launch planned for April 2, at the Muliro Garden.

He said security would be beefed up in Kakamega Town after nominated MCA Jamila Anjere of ODM threatened to mobilise youths to disrupt the function.

Mr Ombati said he had spoken to Mr Wetang’ula and assured him that proper security arrangements would be made to ensure the planned launch goes on without a hitch.

“But I have also asked him to ensure that the event takes place in a peaceful atmosphere and the law and order is maintained,” said Mr Ombati.

He said those who would have nothing to do at the function should keep away from the venue to avoid unnecessary confrontations.

FACE THE LAW

Ms Anjere had on Tuesday told Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya to ask Cord leader Raila Odinga to skip the launch of Mr Wetang’ula’s nomination bid in Kakamega.

But Mr Oparanya, who is opposed to holding the function in Kakamega did not respond to the issue after Ms Anjere had read resolutions of a meeting of ODM leaders at the county headquarters.

Mr Ombati warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the event or engage in acts of lawlessness would face the law.

Governor Oparanya on Wednesday refuted claims that he planned to quit ODM if Mr Odinga attends the launch.

“I’m the ODM deputy party leader and I cannot be swayed by political sideshows by leaders out to undermine me,” said Mr Oparanya.

Addressing mourners at Shanyinya Village in Shinyalu constituency, the governor said he had no personal differences with Senator Wetang’ula.

He said all he was doing was to protect the support enjoyed by ODM in Kakamega and other counties in the western region.