Leaders from the Linda Mwananchi movement were on Friday denied the opportunity to address mourners at the funeral of former VIP Protection Unit commander Lazarus Opicho in Sirende, Trans Nzoia County.

The funeral service had proceeded peacefully until political leaders took to the podium, with some launching sharp verbal attacks against President William Ruto.

Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka said: “I want to urge the security officers here not to allow the security of leaders to be used for political games. Today, someone is taken away; tomorrow, they are gone. Mr President, do not play with Natembeya.”

The remarks appeared to unsettle security officials, as speakers were repeatedly interrupted.

The situation escalated, and the leaders were eventually stopped from speaking, with police taking charge of the funeral programme.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli stated: “Let us understand one thing: everybody has a right to express themselves wherever they are. But do not bring that here, at Opicho’s funeral.”

After the body was taken away for burial, Linda Mwananchi leaders turned their criticism towards the police service, while also defending officers’ welfare and calling for their rights to be protected.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna said: “When I am sworn in as the sixth president, I will take over these houses built by Ruto. These houses built by Ruto…because you heard Opicho’s young colleague say they started life in a single-room house.”

The leaders also called on President William Ruto’s administration to allow opposition figures to campaign freely, without insults, intimidation or restrictions that could derail their political activities.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya stated: “This government is confusing unemployed young people by labelling them goons. They are criminalising poverty. They claim Natembeya is the king of goons in Trans Nzoia. That is nothing but a pack of lies.”

“Even if you insult me or call me names, we will still ask the questions that need to be asked,” Sifuna added.

The leaders say they are determined to overhaul what they describe as oppressive government policies, promising a different direction if they take power.