Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi has voiced strong opposition to the planned Linda Mwananchi rally in Kisumu.

Speaking on Thursday, April 23, the legislator insisted that such a political gathering should only proceed with the full backing of local residents.

Atandi made it clear that the rally’s fate rests entirely in the hands of the residents.

“We are opposed to the Linda Mwananchi rally in Kisumu. The rally can only happen if the residents of that particular area are interested in the rally and they want the rally to happen,” he said.

This comes barely a day after the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja told the Linda Mwananchi rally organisers that they shared the responsibility of ensuring the rally in Kisumu is secure.

Appearing before the Senate Defence Committee on Thursday, April 23, he asked the leaders to ensure that they followed the law and cooperate with the police.

Kanja advised them to refer to what the Constitution of Kenya dictates about the right to peaceful assembly.

“I also want to request organisers; let us follow the law. Look at Article 37 of our Constitution; they even have a responsibility to ensure that there is peace,” he stated.

Kanja assured the Linda Mwananchi leaders and the organisers that the rally would be safe and would go on as planned without any interference.

“I want to assure that the meeting in Kisumu will be safe and secure. We will work together to ensure that everything will be okay. Those who want to attend are free to attend,” he reiterated.