In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, police officers from Kisumu Central Police Station, together with human rights activists and community leaders, marked Valentine’s Day with the residents of Kisumu City. The event, full of color and cheer, featured officers and activists distributing flowers, sharing goodwill, and promoting a message of peace and collaboration throughout the city’s streets.
Kisumu Central OCPD Peter Mulai expressed his joy, highlighting the importance of nurturing a positive relationship between the police and the public.
“We are thrilled because this marks a deepening connection between the people of Kisumu Central Sub-County and the police in Kisumu County at large. We hope this bond continues to grow. However, we will not tolerate the few criminals who try to undermine this relationship,” Mulai said, thanking Kisumu residents for their thoughtful gifts of flowers and treats for the officers.
The event was organized by human rights activists, clergy, and civil society groups, who sought to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community. Jovian Linda of the Kisumu Social Inclusion Network emphasized the need to change public perceptions of the police.
“In past protests, the police were often seen as adversaries, but that’s not the full story. Like everyone, police officers face challenges. Today, as part of the End Femicide KE Movement, we are celebrating with them to spark a positive dialogue and recognize their humanity,” Linda shared.
George Alambo, Chairperson of the Human Rights Network Western Kenya, also underscored the importance of collaboration between civil society and law enforcement.
“Today, we made the decision to be here with the police. As civil society groups, we often come to report incidents or raise concerns, but today we wanted to strengthen our partnership. Valentine’s Day was the perfect occasion to begin building that trust,” Alambo explained.
Clergy members played a crucial role in the celebration. Reverend Syprose Onyango noted that the church has a responsibility to promote peace and cooperation.
“We are here to celebrate with the police because they’ve supported us in cases of femicide and abductions. Love cannot exist where there is no peace, and today we celebrate this peaceful unity,” she said.
James Ochieng Omwa, Civilian Secretary for Community Policing in Kisumu Central, praised the event as a significant milestone in community policing.
“We’ve been working hard to bring the police and the community closer together, and this Valentine’s celebration shows that the community has embraced this relationship. From now on, the police will feel valued and appreciated,” he said.
The celebration didn’t stop at the police station, as officers and activists visited Chichwa Market and Kisumu Bus Park, where they surprised traders and residents with roses, spreading the Valentine’s Day spirit to every corner of the city.
This remarkable celebration not only promoted goodwill but also demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening the bond between the police and the community in Kisumu.
