A section of Kisumu residents and leaders have expressed tension following an anti-riot drill being carried out by police officers in public.
The officers are said to be conducting the exercise outside the Moi Stadium which is instilling fear among the area voters.
During the drill which comes two weeks to the August General Election, the officers are reportedly displaying weapons which leaders claim could intimidate the voters.
Speaking on the matter, Kisumu Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga criticised the operation which she noted was ill-advised.
"Why are they conducting the drill now? We want the acting Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to tell us what is happening to restore confidence among the people,” stated Ms Odinga.
On his part, Kisumu City Residents Voice Chairman Audi Ogada asked for an explanation on why the police officers were displaying their gear causing tension.
“This is creating tension and anxiety among voters. Are they trying to make a communication that they are ready to deal with the people? Tension is simmering over the matter especially among non-indigenous people and the business county and this does not auger well,” divulged Ogada.
However, Nyanza Regional Coordinator Wilson Njega advised residents to remain calm assuring that the operation was meant to boost security in the area.
