2002 Elections
Raila's Woes in the Hands of Nyachae Group
- Details
- Published on Wednesday, 18 July 2007 03:50
Police fired several times in the air to save Mr Odinga from the mob that was baying for his blood.
Mr Odinga had made a surprise landing at Keroka on his way to Kisii town, where he was to address a rally.
Immediately he landed, he attracted hundreds of Ford-People supporters, who mistook his helicopter for that of the party's presidential candidate, Mr Simeon Nyachae's.
On realising that it was Mr Odinga, the angry supporters molested him, frisked him and emptied his pockets.
Police made the situation worse when they told Mr Odinga that he did not have a permit to hold any meeting at the town. The security personnel later fired several shots in the air to disperse the swelling crowd.
The Ford People supporters claimed they were incensed by Mr Odinga's press attacks on Mr Nyachae.
After Mr Odinga left the venue under heavy security, hundreds of Ford-P supporters took to the town's streets singing praises for Mr Nyachae.
Later during a rally at Gusii stadium, Mr Odinga maintained that he would lead a revolt to State House if Kanu rigs the General Election.
Mr Odinga, whose address was continually interrupted by some youths waving Mr Nyachae's campaign posters, urged supporters to keep vigil at Nairobi's Uhuru Park from December 28 until the election results were announced and Narc declared winner.
He said the police threat to block the planned rally was inconsequential "because they will all be in the opposition".
He also reminded President Moi that after the polls, he would be a common citizen.
When Mr Odinga and his team arrived at Kisii town, they were welcomed with chants of "Ford People Juu! Nyachae Juu!"
Ford-P condemned the Keroka incident and a clash between the party's and Narc supporters in Kisii town. "If there were any party youths involved in these disgraceful events, they will be disciplined," said the party's statement.
