Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has cautioned politicians against interfering with the African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals scheduled for Friday at Kasarani Stadium.
Addressing the press in Murang’a on Tuesday, August 19, Murkomen assured Kenyans that the National Police Service would reinforce security to prevent disruptions during the highly anticipated clash between Harambee Stars and Madagascar.
“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, and I want to assure the citizens of Kenya that we will do the same in the upcoming game,” Murkomen stated.
Although he did not mention names, Murkomen appeared to direct his caution at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, August 21, after his trip to the United States.
“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 warned.
Government Awaits CAF Directives on Security
Murkomen also urged Kenyans to keep rallying behind the national team, assuring them that the government is waiting for guidance from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) before putting in place additional security measures to guarantee a smooth match.
“We are waiting for the directions to the CAF, and once that is done, we will ask Kenyans again to ensure that they support Harambee Stars and ensure that they abide by the rules, and see how seamless it will be,” Murkomen stated.
DCP Mobilizes Supporters to Welcome Gachagua
Murkomen’s warning came a day after the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) announced plans to stage a massive welcome for its leader Rigathi Gachagua.
In a Monday, August 18 statement, DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala revealed that thousands of supporters would gather at JKIA at 8 a.m. to receive Gachagua.
Malala claimed that after his arrival, Gachagua would lead “a mother of all peaceful processions” from the airport to the Nairobi CBD before heading to Kamukunji grounds for a rally.
According to Malala, the party had already informed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja about the procession. He urged police to provide security instead of interfering with the activity.
Warning of Protests if Arrested
Malala also cautioned the government against arresting Gachagua upon his return, arguing that such a move would trigger protests and possibly disrupt the ongoing tournament.
“If you apprehend Rigathi Gachagua the following day, you will see demonstrations, and yet the Harambee Stars will be playing on Friday, because I’m sure that if Gachagua is apprehended, we will not be able to see the Harambee Stars play on Friday for the quarter finals,” Malala said.
