Police Warn Politicians Against Incitement Ahead of November 27 By-Election

 By : Mweru Mbugua 

Nairobi, Kenya The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning to politicians ahead of the November 27 by-election, emphasizing its readiness to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process

In a statement on Wednesday, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga reaffirmed the service’s commitment to working closely with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to maintain security across polling stations

“In the upcoming by-election on November 27, the NPS reiterates its unwavering commitment to executing its duties impartially, professionally and in strict adherence to the Constitution, in order to facilitate a peaceful, free, fair and credible electoral process

The public is assured that adequate security shall be deployed for the attainment of the set objective,” Nyaga said

The police warned political leaders against making statements that could incite violence, spread hatred, or undermine public confidence in electoral institutions

Nyaga stressed that any leader found inciting the public would face legal action, regardless of social or political status

“All political leaders are specifically called upon to desist from utterances that are inciteful to violence or bear hatred of whatever form

They should further refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as threatening or defamatory or that undermine public confidence in our institutions,” he said

 Also read : Kipchumba Murkomen Confirms Government Withdrew Natembeya’s Security Detail, Cites Safety Concerns

The NPS also urged Kenyans to remain calm and maintain peace during the by-election.

Security Concerns Over Natembeya

In related developments, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya confirmed that his security detail was withdrawn, prompting concerns about his safety ahead of the hotly contested Malava by-election

Natembeya alleged that the withdrawal, which was carried out without explanation, was influenced by political leaders.

“My security officers were asked to report to the nearest police station without any explanation

I hold Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi responsible for this decision,” Natembeya said during a brief phone interview

The NPS assured the public that all security arrangements will prioritize safety and law enforcement during the voting process