Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned political leaders against disrupting public order ahead of the CHAN quarter-final match between Kenya and Madagascar this Friday – a message widely interpreted as directed at supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking in Murang’a on Tuesday, Murkomen said security would be heightened at Kasarani Stadium and across Nairobi to ensure calm during the high-profile fixture.
“I want to thank the National Police Service for doing a fantastic job to secure Kasarani on Sunday to ensure that we abide by the CAF rule, and we know that on Friday we will have a very big match,” Murkomen said. “I want to assure the citizens of Kenya that we will do the same in the upcoming game.”
He made it clear that any political interference would not be entertained.
“Any interference from political actors, both in the country and those who are coming in, will not be tolerated during this match. We want peace to prevail in our nation,” he added.
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Gachagua is expected to return from a trip to the United States on Thursday, with his party, the Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP), planning a large reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport followed by a procession through Nairobi.
DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala on Monday confirmed that thousands of supporters would escort Gachagua to a rally at Kamukunji Grounds. He also warned the government against arresting the former deputy president, claiming it would provoke protests.
“If you apprehend Rigathi Gachagua the following day, you will see demonstrations, and yet the Harambee Stars will be playing on Friday,” said Malala.
Murkomen’s remarks appear aimed at pre-empting any such scenes that could interfere with national focus on the Harambee Stars’ historic run in the African Nations Championship.
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