Religious leader Prophet David Owuor attracted a huge crowd in Kisumu for a three-day rally causing a massive traffic jam.
Thousands of faithful arrived in Kisumu town for the New Year prayers to be led by Owuor.
The faithful started arriving in Kibos Grounds on Friday last week from as far Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda and Europe. Others came from Rift Valley, Nairobi, Nakuru, Western and other parts of the country.
Those suffering from various diseases were screened before accessing the grounds for prayers. A special gate has been set aside for the sick to avoid stampede. There was tight security as more than 1,200 police officers, including anti-terror experts were deployed to the venue.
Kisumu county commissioner John Elungata and Assistant IG Joseph Keitany said acts of lawlessness will be allowed. They said police are on high alert to curb any crime.
Owuor arrived in Kisumu on Wednesday evening with a convoy of sleek cars escorted by police under tight security. Hundreds of followers lined up along the streets to welcome him on his way to Acacia Hotel, where he is booked.
He was received by Ranguma with his wife Olivia Ranguma, county executive members and Nyanza Regional Coordinator Francis Mutie. Four major hotels were fully booked at a cost of Sh12 million for Prophet Owuor’s entourage which also included visitors from other parts of Africa and Europe.
Ranguma urged Owuor to pray Kisumu and the country so that all citizens can repent and proclaim the heavenly God.
“We have seen miracles through his prayers and I am calling him to pray for the country,” he said.
Last year more than 10,000 people, including those from Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Europe, attended Owuor’s crusade in Kisumu.
The faithful braved the cold and rainy weather conditions to camp at the crusade grounds singing praise and worship hymns and gospel songs.