Attack on Raila Odinga’s chopper shows political intolerance among Kenyans

The damaged windshield of Raila Odinga’s helicopter. [Standard]

The attack on Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya presidential candidate Raila Odinga’s helicopter in Uasin Gishu County last Friday is a despicable act that must be condemned in the strongest terms possible. Though neither Mr Odinga nor any member of his entourage was hurt in the mayhem, the helicopter’s windshield was shattered and rocks were hurled at cars in the ODM leader’s convoy, badly damaging them.

It is commendable that Deputy President and Kenya Kwanza alliance presidential hopeful William Ruto, in whose political backyard the mayhem occurred, strongly condemned it. Dr Ruto, describing the reprehensible incident as regrettable, has called on Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai to arrest the culprits for questioning. The DP, who is expected to face the Azimio leader in the presidential poll, called for an election free of violence.