Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has cautioned Kenyans leaving in Kenya-Tanzania border town of Namanga against participating in the protests happening in the President Suluhu led country.
Speaking on Thursday October 30, PS Omollo appealed to Kenyans to adhere to rules guiding the conduct of demonstrations, as the security personnel monitors the situation along the border.
Dr. Omollo’s plea came after unrest erupted in Namanga following the Wednesday’s elections in Tanzania which protesters have described as a farce.
“As a country, we have laws and regulations that guide the conduct of public demonstrations and protests. My appeal is that anyone who might want to or be engaged in any kind of protests or demonstrations, let’s do what the laws allow us,” PS Omollo appealed.
He asserted that the Kenyan authorities are working around the clock to ensure that the turmoil poses no safety risk people or inconvenience the movement of cargo.
“Our officers are competent enough to deal with any situations. If there will be any inconveniences in terms of movement of cargo and people, I believe that the officers at our points of entry and exit must be able to advise those who are moving so that we don’t endanger lives or businesses,” he added.
PS Omollo further affirmed Kenya’s respect for Tanzania’s sovereignty, citing the long-standing neighbourly relations that has existed between the two countries.
“I’m sure our friends in Tanzania also have ways and mechanisms of dealing with their issues. They have been our friendly neighbours and we wish them well as they go through their processes,” he said.
Demonstrations broke out in various towns across Tanzania on election day, with irate youth leading the protests against the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) led government.
President Samia Suluhu has received criticism for suppressing the country’s opposition, as key rivals were disqualified from participating in the presidential race.
