[President Uhuru Kenyatta addressing residents of Mbita. His security guards spared opposition supporters who attacked his motorcade. Photo/Nation]
Unlike his father Jomo Kenyatta, President Uhuru Kenyatta yet again endured another torrid moment in opposition leader Raila Odinga’s backyard without necessarily retaliating.
In 1969, Kenyatta senior’s guards were forced to open fire which killed dozens following an attempt by Kisumu locals to stone his motorcade.
But on Wednesday, Uhuru stayed calm following an attempt by Kisumu youths to throw stones at his motorcade moments after addressing a public rally.
Officers guarding the president did not fire or use teargas canisters to disperse a rowdy crowd which seemed agitated by DP William Ruto who had accompanied the president.
This is not the first incident Uhuru has stayed calm at an opposition stronghold regardless of the hostility he receives buy locals.
In 2014, Uhuru addressed Migori residents despite locals throwing stones and shoes on the main dais at the full glance of cameras with his security details only focused at protecting him from possible danger.
Although the Wednesday’s incidence only targeted the DP, Uhuru generally received a grand welcome in the region where he had toured to open a number of projects.