Youths storm a Kisumu hotel over alleged vote buying

Several women were injured and property of unknown value destroyed on Wednesday after armed youths attacked an inter-religious peace meeting at Jumuia hotel in Kisumu County over claims that they were buying National Identification Cards to be used in the forthcoming election.

A Facebook post that alleged there was buying of ID cards at the hotel triggered reactions leading to chaos in Kisumu.

Police dispersed the youths using tear gas canisters but they were adamant and have vowed to set ablaze the hotel.

Women at the meeting however said the meeting was about peace ahead of the forthcoming presidential election.

Those who were injured have been rushed to the nearby hospital.

NASA women leaders on September 11 raised alarm over massive buying of national Identity cards from their supporters ahead of the presidential repeat polls slated for October 17.

The legislators led by ODMs Secretary General Agnes Zani said the scheme was aimed at reducing Raila Odinga’s votes.

The lawmakers Jacqueline Oduol (National Assembly), Rose Nyamunga (Senate), Danita Ghati (National Assembly), Gertrude Inimah (Senate), Naomi Masita (Senate) and Mercy Chebeni (Senate) spoke at Anniversary Towers in Nairobi.  

They said vote buying is ongoing in Kisumu, Bungoma, Busia and Kakamega counties.