We Cannot Restrain Ourselves Anymore- IG Koome Ahead Of Azimio Protests

Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome on Sunday, March 26 maintained that the planned mass action on Monday, March 27 is illegal, warning protesters that will take to the streets of consequences in their bid to enforce law and order.

Speaking to the media ahead of the demonstrations led by Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, the IG expressed the readiness of the police to ensure that peace prevails in the country.

He added that the police force is ready and equipped for that day and will arrest those planning to disrupt businesses and destroy property while warning politicians who are on record intimidating junior officers as they discharge their duties.

IG Japhet Koome addressing the media on Sunday, March 26, 2023. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

This is following their threats to file a case against Nairobi Regional Commander Adamson Bungei at the International Criminal Court.

“I have not approved of any demonstrations. We are ready as the police force to ensure there is calm in all parts of the country, we have enough Land Cruisers to arrest people regardless of their status,” said Koome.

He also confirmed that he has withdrawn the security of politicians who have confirmed their participation in tomorrow’s protests, even as he criticised Azimio’s demands to have IEBC’s elections servers opened.

The police boss further noted that police officers have exhausted their level of restraint and will come out to ensure law and order are maintained.

“Why do you want to ruin the country for something that a common mwananchi does not understand?  I do not understand it myself. we have been restraining ourselves. We cannot do that anymore.

"We must come out as the police service to ensure law and order is maintained. That is the message for everybody. I will deal with you as a law-abiding citizen of the country. I have a job to do, and I will discharge that mandate without fear or favour,” he said.

He castigated politicians for mobilising stone-throwing at police officers while they have officers themselves who are protecting them, noting that those involved have had their security detail withdrawn.

“If you are a politician, the IG will give you security. How can you throw stones at the police when you have one of them keeping you safe? I will recall my officer. All those that have been involved in throwing stones at the police, I have withdrawn their security,” he added.

On Kenyans' concerns regarding their security and that of their businesses on that day, IG Koome urged them to report to their places of work without having to fear for their security.

"We have seen it's important to tell our people to report to work today. If it's going to the farm, office, market or any other occupation, all Kenyans should report to work.

"People are allowed to come to the city. However, if you have plans to bring violence and if you are armed with offensive weapons such as machetes, stones, and clubs, you will face the music," he cautioned.

He further castigated the opposition over the public naming and shaming of a police officer in Maseno accused of gunning down a university student during the demonstrations.

"They have put a constable all over social media, why don't you target the IG? Face me, I will deal with you!" The IG posed.

His announcements came a day after President William Ruto urged Raila to call off the mass action protests. However, the former Prime Minister fired back, telling Ruto that he was not a person to take orders from him.