•Owili alleged that this was an assassination attempt against Raila and not political violence and those behind it must stop.
•"We call for calm in the county during the period," he said.
Image: FAITH MATETE
Leaders from Kisumu County have condemned the Friday attack on Azimio la Umoja presidential candidate Raila Odinga, saying all they need is peace during this electioneering period.
Raila's chopper was stoned at Kabenes after the burial of Mzee Jackson Kibor in Uasin Gishu.
The leaders led by Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Speaker Elisha Oraro and former DG Ruth Odinga noted that as a county, Raila's security is paramount to them.
Owili alleged that this was an assassination attempt against Raila and not political violence and those behind it must stop.
"We call for calm in the county during the period," he said.
"It should be noted that in Kisumu County, we preach peace," he added.
Ruth, on the other hand, noted that this was a wrong move by the rowdy youth.
"I don't want to talk about this more, but let's all preach and maintain peace," she said.
Oraro noted that any politician is free and allowed to campaign in any area during this electioneering period, adding that they welcome DP William Ruto and his team to Kisumu for a peaceful campaign.
He noted that what happened in Uasin Gishu was an act of barbarism and such behaviours should not be encouraged.
"We won't go back to what happened in the country in 2007 and 2008," he said, adding that there must be political tolerance.
Already seventeen suspects have been arrested over the incident.
Uasin Gishu County Commissioner Stephen Kihara said those arrested have given information on how the incident took place.
He added that key political leaders in the region have been linked to the planning of the incident.
Kihara said the politicians will be arrested to serve as a lesson to others.
"We will not allow that to happen in our country and anyone doing that will not be tolerated," he said on Saturday.
The County Commissioner said investigations were underway to ensure anyone involved is arrested and charged.