Seven arrested in Kisumu after destructive anti-IEBC demos

Seven people have been arrested in Kisumu following Friday’s demonstrations that led to the destruction of private property including looting of a supermarket in the town.

Kisumu County Commander Titus Yoma confirmed the arrests, saying two people were arrested for invading Tumaini Supermarket while five others were apprehended for destroying property.

“We will not allow demonstrations where protesters destroy and even steal property. We have also seen civilians posting photos on social media while posing with teargas canisters. They should hand them over to police failure to which we will have them arrested,” Yoma warned.

Nyanza National Super Alliance (NASA) presidential campaign coordinator Bob Madanji has also condemned the destruction witnessed in the lakeside city on Friday.

According to some of the locals, angry youths vented their anger on the businesses after they were denied access to IEBC offices in the county.

Some demonstrators broke into Tumaini Supermarket while others vandalized water pipes belonging to Kisumu Water and Sewerage Company (Kiwasco).

Following the incident, Kiwasco announced water supply had been stopped to Tom Mboya, CBD, Milimani, Migosi, Nyawita, Lolwe Migosi and Mamboleo areas.

“Our water lines have been destroyed and it is the reason we have shut down the lines to avoid further wastage of the commodity,” the company said.

More protests

Meanwhile, NASA has declared it will increase its protests against the electoral commission from two to three days.

In a letter to Nairobi County Police Commander Japheth Koome, NASA chief Executive Norman Magaya stated that they will hold demos on Monday, Wednesday and Friday next week.

“These demonstrations will also serve to demand the withdrawal of the Election Laws (Amendment) Bill 2017 being fronted by Jubilee Party,” Magaya stated.

He asked the police to provide security for leaders and supporters who will participate in the protests.