Kenyan security forces on high alert ahead of Raila's oath ceremony

With just one day to go to the controversial swearing-in of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, details have emerged on the massive security mobilisation being undertaken in the country that could see a number of top opposition figures arrested before the D-day.

According to the Nation newspaper, Inspector General of Police Jospeh Boinnet is understood to have met a contingent of police officers in order to draw up a strategy on how to deal with the event expected to attract many opposition supporters.

A source at the Interior Ministry said the intention of arresting the high flying opposition members is to thwart the whole oath process.

High alert

Besides Nairobi, police are on high alert in Kisumu, Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Mombasa, which could offer alternative venue for the oath should Uhuru Park be cordoned off on Tuesday.

The government has asserted that Uhuru Park, the earmarked venue for the swearing-in, remains a no-go zone until further notice. NASA have however maintained that the oath will be conducted at the park.

Likewise, it is understood that a number of foreign envoys have been kept abreast by top government officials about the opposition’s plans but were given assurances that all was well since security officials were on high alert.

Treason

Attorney General Githu Muigai has threatened both Raila and his deputy Kalonzo Musyoka with a treason charge, which attracts death penalty.

Mr. Odinga has however stated that he is not afraid copping a treason arrest adding that sovereignty lies in the hands of Kenyans.

"I told Prof Muigai to go and tell that to the birds! Sovereignty is vested in the people, and can be exercised directly or through elected representatives. Kenyans have taken back their sovereignty because we have a situation of an illegal government,"he said in a recent interview with Voice of America.

Violence

A number of religious and political leaders have however called on the NASA leader to shelve off his oath plans as it could be a recipe for violence.

"There is no room in the Constitution for parallel power. Let our brothers in the opposition follow the law,” said Head of the Anglican Church Jackson ole Sapit.

Jubilee party Vice-chairperson said President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto are concerned that the intentions of Nasa could be disruptive.

“The only challenge, though, is the climate of uncertainty and anxiety, which Nasa is creating. No self-respecting government can watch helplessly as our economy is destabilised by a people keen at fomenting a revolution,” he noted.