Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, just like other notable dignitaries own bulletproof vehicles owing to security concerns and their stature in society.
On Monday, March 20, Prof Makau Mutua - the opposition chief's ally shared photos of Raila's vehicle - whose windscreen was shattered after police allegedly shot at the vehicle.
Raila's use of bulletproof vehicles is enshrined in the Fire Arms Act and the Security Laws (Amendment) Act of 2014.
According to the Law, no one can own import or use a bulletproof vehicle without approval from the Firearms Licencing Board.
"No person shall manufacture, assemble, purchase, acquire or have in his possession an armoured vehicle unless he holds a certificate of approval issued under this Act," reads the Security Laws (Amendment) Act in part.
According to the Act, the Firearms Board is made of a chairperson - appointed by the Interior Cabinet Secretary and seven other members from security agencies.
Other members of the board come from the National Police Service (NPS), a representative from the Office of the Attorney General, a representative of firearm holders and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the National Focal Point are also represented on the Board.
Some of the functions of the Board shall be to issue, cancel, terminate licences and establish, maintain and monitor a centralized record management system under this Act," reads the Act in part.
Fine
"Provided that, when the offence for which the person is convicted (not being an offence in relation to a prohibited weapon or to any ammunition therefor) is a failure by neglect to renew a firearms certificate such person shall be liable to pay a fine at the rate of Ksh500 per day for every day or part thereof during which his default continues.
"No person shall be liable to pay a fine greater than the maximum provided by this subsection and if a such fine is not paid then to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years," read the act in part.
How the Vehicles Work
Parts or vehicles that are bulletproof include windscreen, windows, car floor and fuel tank.
The windscreen is usually layered laminated glass that makes it difficult for bullets to penetrate.
"We start the actual process of armouring by adding armour plates or light-weight composites to the roof, floor, side walls and rear area. The suspension and braking systems are also modified and reinforced to handle the added weight of the armour," INKAS, a leading manufacturer of armoured vehicles detailed the process.
