1,200 cops sent to Owuor’s prayer rally

Kisumu town is thronged by thousands attending Prophet David Owuor’s three-day prayer rally.

Worshippers started arriving at Kibos Grounds on Friday last week from as far as Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda and Europe.

Others came from Rift Valley, Nairobi, Nakuru, Western and elsewhere.

Those suffering from diseases were screened before entering the grounds for prayers.

A gate has been set aside for the sick to prevent a stampede.

Security is tight, with more than 1,200 police officers, including anti-terror experts, deployed to the venue and town.

Kisumu county commissioner John Elungata and Assistant Inspector General of Police Joseph Keitany said lawlessness will not be allowed.

They said police are on high alert. Owuor arrived in Kisumu on Wednesday evening in a convoy of sleek cars escorted by police.

Hundreds of followers lined the streets to welcome him on his way to the Acacia Hotel, where he is staying during the rally.

Owuor was received by Governor Jack Ranguma and his wife Olivia, executives and Nyanza regional coordinator Francis Mutie.

Four major hotels were fully booked for Sh12 million for his entourage, including visitors from Africa and Europe.

Ranguma urged Owuor to pray for Kisumu and the country so all citizens repent and turn to God.

“We have seen miracles through his prayers and I am calling on him to pray for the country,” he said.

Last year, more than 10,000 people attended Owuor’s crusade in Kisumu.