Standoff as Police Stop Women’s Group From Holding General Meeting

Police on Wednesday engaged in a standoff with a women’s group in Gilgil, Nakuru County, after they defied orders prohibiting them from gathering.

In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) revealed that although it had initially approved the Kiambu-based women’s group’s annual general meeting, the approval was later rescinded. Despite this, the group proceeded with their travel to Naivasha.

According to the police, the meeting was cancelled due to security concerns.

“Although the meeting was initially cleared by the Police, we later received intelligence indicating that the current settlers on the land were likely to clash with the group,” part of the statement read.

“Consequently, the meeting was cancelled on security grounds, and notice of cancellation was issued to Lari Nyakinywa Chairman to inform the members.”

The statement further revealed that police had received credible intelligence indicating the women were planning to travel to the AGM, prompting immediate action.

This led to a standoff when police intercepted them at the Gilgil Junction.

“The Regional Police Commander for Rift Valley is on the ground engaging with the group at Gilgil Junction to resolve the standoff amicably,” the statement read.

“In the meantime, we are appealing to members of the Lari Nyakinywa Women’s Group to comply with the police advice and disperse peacefully from Gilgil, even as other relevant government departments work to find a lasting solution to the land issue.”

The statement concluded with a call to the public to adhere to police directives.

“As a service, we remain committed to our mandate of maintaining law and order,” it concluded.

To legally hold a gathering, the law requires that the police be notified between three to 14 days before the proposed date of the public meeting or procession.