Man who blocked Uhuru’s convoy released for being patriotic

Ochieng Obado, the man who obstructed President Uhuru Kenyatta’s convoy in Mombasa earlier this week has been released.

The 30-year-old man had strategically positioned himself on Mama Ngina Drive to catch the President’s attention but was quickly bundled into a police car before he could catch a glimpse of the Head of State.

Appearing before Mombasa Senior Resident Magistrate Eric Mutunga, Obado stated that he genuinely wanted to see the President and show him a placard which was written ““The Golden Handshake, Amani, Umoja, Upendo na Ushirikiano”.

When the charge sheet was read, Mutunga was puzzled and could not see how the suspect had caused disturbance.

He had been accused of creating disturbance contrary to section 95(1) (b) of the Penal Code.

The magistrate, in his ruling, lauded Obado for preaching peace and ordered his release.

“The suspect was spreading a message of unity, the court therefore discharges him (the suspect) and order that he be released unconditionally,” said Mutunga.

Speaking after his release, Obado stated that he is talented in art and often does menial jobs to survive.

He lamented the fact that he had not accomplished his dream of meeting the President but would continue displaying his works of art.

“I am still young, energetic and jobless so I don’t want to waste my time stealing from people or engaging any criminal activity. I wanted him (President Kenyatta) to see the portrait so that from it he can help me to find a better job,” he said.