Dear Kenyans and friends of Kenya,

By way of update – when a number of Bunge la Mwananchi members, accompanied by the press, attempted to visit Frederick Odhiambo earlier this morning at the Nairobi Women’s Hospital, we were barred from seeing him by the police who are guarding him. As I write, we have still not been able to see Odhiambo. This is an apt example of the rampant government heavy handedness that Kenyans have had enough of.

The policemen guarding him have informed us that they are under strict instructions not to allow anyone, especially the press, to visit him. We have further been told that we must have permission from “the police officer”, although they will not clearly say who this police officer is.

We are still making attempts to get in and see him and once we are successful, I will update you on how he is faring.

Thank you all for your continued support as Kenyans continue to join in solidarity in fighting against high food and basic commodity prices, high fuel prices, the MPs resistance to pay tax and the general culture of impunity of the political elite, including attempting to muzzle the freedom of information through the Media Bill.

The struggle continues,

George Nyongesa
Bunge la Mwananchi
+254 720 451 235

Bunge la Mwananchi is a social movement and a member of the Kenya National Civil Society Congress

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Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 02:14:42 -0800 [04:14:42 AM CST]
From: George Nyongesa
Subject: Police bar civil society and media from visiting Frederick Odhiambo