Kenya’s Election set for August 2022 is undoubtedly the major political event in the country and for Africa. Geographically neighboring countries in war and conflict; Ethiopia, Somalia and South Sudan, African leaders will be keenly monitoring these polls. Also as a gateway to Eastern Africa, Kenya is very critical to the economic survival of the region.
With the August 9th polls drawing closer, Kenyans have begun to witness heightened political activities. Politicians are crisscrossing the country in search of elusive votes. There is a bee hive of activities daily packed with Road show, rallies, or town hall meetings.
Risks and threats will shift as a candidate travels around the country and attends different events, so each location needs its own security plan and those plans need to adjust as the environment changes.
Politicians are fond of seeking the services of hired groups of peoples who are ferried to locations. These hired individuals are the ones who pose a great threat to your security and safety. In their midst, there are goons and criminals.
So how can you be safe in the event you find yourself in an area that has political activity? How to do avoid such places in the first place for those who wish to?
First and most important, be aware of the political events near your and places you frequently visit. Seek information from local media, area leaders, friends and even from whatsapp groups on whats happening in your hood. Frequently check on social media since politicians will always post where they are visiting.
You need to contend with the fact that all politicians are usually accompanied by goons. These goons, their main objective is to wreak havoc, loot and steal. They essentially take advantage of the confusion in rallies. The goons are at times hired to provide security to the politician. Sometimes, they join the entourage without mobilization to take advantage, (read steal)
If you have identified the area where there will be a political activity, avoid the area completely. You’d rather be safe than sorry. Small shops and business persons are usually advised to shut down shops. Displayed items outside shops are usually easy to pick. Unless your shop is designed in way you can have all items inside, by all means open and make a sale, but be cautious.
For those who are bold and attend the rallies, ensure you are with or around familiar individuals. In essence, avoid attending rallies alone. This is because you may find yourself in the midst of a gang that do not know you and may attack you.
Avoid carrying or wearing valuable to a rally. Items like watches, earrings, necklaces and chains are a no. These are items that can be snatched in the crowd in the midst of a melee.
Significantly, be wary of pickpockets. If possible, have empty pockets, and if you must have money, ensure you have deep pockets. This will enable you keep your small amount of money and mobile phone.
