The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a statement over the chaos witnessed at the Kasarani International Stadium during the Azimio La Umoja National Convention on Friday, December 10.
The party's Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, apologized to Maragua Member of Parliament, Mary Wamaua, over the hostile reception she received after arriving at the venue.
He, however, blamed the Legislator's failure to communicate with the organizing committee that she would be attending for the ugly scenes witnessed at the venue.
He regretted the incident but noted that it would have been avoided, adding that the ODM party has previously engaged United Democratic Alliance (UDA) peacefully.
"This regrettable incident could have been avoided if only she let us know in advance that she would be joining us," stated Sifuna.
"We have received dozens of defectors from UDA before, but with prior arrangement to ensure their intention is not misunderstood. Pole sana Mhesh (We are sorry Honourable)."
The Maragua MP was mishandled by security officers who were manning the event over suspicion that she had ill motives.
Wamaua, who decamped to UDA from the ruling Jubilee Party in November 2021, was forced to head back after engaging in a bitter altercation with the security personnel.
The event also witnessed other chaotic scenes with attendees reporting cases of mugging and pickpocketing, where the criminals took advantage of the large population that attended the function.
VIP entertainers were also at some time forced to interrupt their sessions when chaos broke out at the entrance as officers barred some non-loyal politicians from entering the stadium.
Some theft suspects were also apprehended by police officers and detained at Kasarani Police Station as they were found in possession of five phones whose ownership they could not explain.
The Kasarani convention saw Raila Odinga announce his fifth presidential bid in the 2022 elections, which will see him face Deputy President William Ruto as the most formidable opponent.
