NPS Commends Linda Mwananchi Rally, Urges Politicians to Embrace Peaceful Engagements

The National Police Service (NPS) has praised the Linda Mwananchi political faction for conducting an orderly political rally at Jacaranda Grounds in Embakasi, Nairobi, on Sunday.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the police described the Senator Edwin Sifuna-led faction’s gathering as an example of how political activities can be conducted peacefully and within the law.

The NPS said the rally demonstrated that citizens can exercise their constitutional freedoms without violence or disruption of public order, commending members of the public for their cooperation and adherence to established protocols.

"What was witnessed on Sunday is precisely what the National Police Service has consistently advocated: that we can exercise our constitutional freedoms peacefully and within the law," the statement read in part.

"We commend members of the public for their cooperation, maturity and adherence to established protocols."

Police Call for Peaceful Political Activities

The security agency said the Jacaranda rally provided a model for future political engagements, encouraging political leaders, supporters and stakeholders to adopt similar standards.

"The Jacaranda rally demonstrates that political expression can take place without violence or disruption of public order," the NPS said.

"We therefore encourage all political leaders, supporters and stakeholders to make this the standard for future political engagements."

The statement comes amid concerns over violent incidents reported during political gatherings across the country. The NPS urged political actors to prioritise peaceful participation and respect for public order.

Sifuna-Led Faction Mobilises Support in Nairobi

The Linda Mwananchi faction, led by Senator Edwin Sifuna, held the Nairobi rally alongside several prominent political figures, including Embakasi Member of Parliament Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Senators Richard Onyonka of Kisii and Godfrey Osotsi of Vihiga.

The gathering formed part of the faction’s political mobilisation efforts as it seeks to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The group has positioned itself as part of the opposition to President William Ruto’s administration and has expressed its intention to challenge the government in the next election.

Political Violence Remains a Concern

The NPS statement follows a series of reported clashes at political events in different parts of Kenya, some of which have resulted in injuries, deaths and property damage.

Linda Mwananchi has also reported experiencing attacks, with party leaders describing a clash in Homa Bay County on August 19 as a coordinated attack.

The police’s commendation of the Jacaranda rally underscores its call for political parties and their supporters to conduct campaigns without resorting to violence.

As political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 polls, the NPS is encouraging stakeholders to make peaceful political expression and respect for the law a consistent feature of public gatherings.