According to Daily Nation, Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet condemned the musician’s action ordering his lock up. National Gender and Equality Commission had asked Mr Boinnet to arrest the Lingala star over his action that was caught on camera.
The 60-year old musician was captured in a video kicking a woman who is believed to be a member of his band moments after they landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Friday morning.
Commission chairperson Winfred Lichuma said it was unfortunate that the incident happened in full glare of cameras and police officers.
“The incident has caused an outpouring of public outrage over the apparent cruelty and inhuman treatment exhibited by a globally renowned musician on one of his band members,” Ms Lichuma said.
She said the musician should be dealt with in accordance with the Kenyan law if he is found guilty of assault.
The commission also said that the musician ought to apologise to the public.
The Penal Code states that any person who unlawfully assaults another is guilty of a misdemeanor and is liable to imprisonment for one year.
CONDEMNATION
Video footage of the Congolese Lingala Selfie hit song star and bad boy of African music kicking the woman immediately went viral. Condemnation was instant and all-round.
Three MPs asked how the foreign musician could be allowed to walk free despite committing the offence as police watched.
“Koffi’s passport should be confiscated immediately,” said Taita-Taveta Woman Representative Joyce Lay, who has in the past complained of being assaulted by a fellow legislator.
Ms Lay made a statement in Parliament in the company of fellow MPs Alfred Keter (Nandi) and Johanna Ng’eno (Emurua-Dikir).
“He should be in custody now,” said Mr Keter, while Mr Ng’eno called on Mr Olomide to either leave the country voluntarily or be deported.
He said: “We will ensure that the concert does not take place.”
Olomide is expected to perform tonight at the Bomas of Kenya.
