A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leaders and officials have lashed out at police officers for raiding Governor James Ongwae’s  residents at Mile Mbili in the outskirts of Kisii town  on Thursday and ejecting senator Prof. Sam Ongeri and county lawmakers- Janet Ong’era (Kisii) and Pamella Odhiambo (Migori).  

Ongwae said he was having dinner at his residence at 7.30 p.m when a contingent of about 50 security officers stormed his residence and broke his gate, claiming he was having a meeting past curfew hours.

Speaking to the press in Kisii town on Friday, the governor said the officers told him they had instructions from their bosses, adding he never saw such for the time he worked as a senior government officer.

“We are a peace-loving country and protocol should be followed. The police were given wrong information,” Ongwae said, adding the harassment is linked to the impending Bonchari constituency mini –poll slated for May 18.

The governor, accompanied by ODM Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, Treasurer, Timothy Bosire and Executive Director, Oduor Ong’wen said some people want to win the Bonchari election by force, adding they will fight to ensure ODM candidate, Pavel Oimeke wins the seat.

He appealed to Interior and Coordination Cabinet Secretary, Dr Fred Matiang’i to protect members of the Gusii community against harassment by police, adding the raid at his residence was unjustified.

“I was powerful at the office of the President and was in charge of the Directorate of Personnel Management. I urge Interior Cabinet Secretary, Dr Fred Matiang’I to protect us,” Ongwae said.

Ongwae said police officers have been following and harassing ODM campaign teams in Bonchari and tear-gassing innocent people and urged Matiangi to stop the officers and allow the candidates to campaign peacefully.