Kimilili Member of Parliament (MP) Dismus Barasa has faulted the police for failing to arrest Azimio leader Raila Odinga following chaotic demos witnessed across the country on Wednesday July 12, 2023.
Addressing a press conference in Parliament Buildings on Wednesday together with Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku and Emgwen MP Josses Kiptoo, Barasa called for the civilian arrest of Raila if police fail to arrest him.
“If the police do not arrest Raila within 24 hours, we want to ask our Kenya Kwanza supporters to arrest Raila and take him to the nearest police station,” Barasa said.
The Kimilili MP further reiterated his call for Raila’s arrest in a tweet.
“The right to peacefully protest is protected by law. However, this is not an absolute right, and the behaviour of Azimio protestors may give rise to criminal offences Countrywide! Mzee Raila must be arrested! Nothing more Nothing less!” He tweeted.
Mbeere North MP, while echoing Barasa’s plea to the police, emphasized on the need for protesters to remain peaceful, faulting the destruction of Nairobi Expressway in Mlolongo area.
“It’s high time we put effect to Article 37 of the Constitution to provide that those who demonstrate and picketing should do so in a peaceful manner,” Ruku said.
Nairobi Expressway
A section of the Nairobi Expressway was closed on Wednesday as the road operator Moja Expressway company shut service at three toll stations.
In a statement, Moja Expressway company informed motorists that the temporary closure of Mlolongo, Syokimau and SGR toll stations was occasioned by the Wedneday protests.
“We regret to inform you that a section of the Nairobi Expressway toll services have been temporarily halted at Mlolongo, Syokimau and SGR Toll Stations due to the ongoing demonstrations,” part of the statement read assuring motorists that efforts to restore nomalcy are underway.
Protesters vandalized Nairobi Expressway in Mlolongo prompting police to violently crack down on them.
