Opposition leaders have raised concerns over incidents of
disruption and violence at their political gatherings, urging authorities to
take action.
The leaders said they
were submitting complaints to ensure that future political activities are
conducted safely.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi’s Central
Business District on Friday after submitting complaints to Inspector General of Police
Douglas Kanja, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the opposition had
provided details of recent incidents, warning that they would call for mass action should security measures not be taken.
“We have submitted the details to the Inspector General to
take action against those involved in the attack (Othaya). Should no action be
taken, we will urge Kenyans to come out,” he said.
Gachagua added that opposition leaders plan to return to Othaya
the coming Sunday, providing information on where they would meet, and emphasised
the need for security measures during political events.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also highlighted concerns
about the growing frequency of disruptions at political rallies, noting the
importance of accountability and safe political engagement.
“If a national leader is touched, we will consider a call
for mass action—the church, Kenyans, and everywhere. It is important that such
incidents are addressed promptly,” Musyoka said.
On Friday, the leaders held a meeting at the Stanley Hotel in
Nairobi before marching to the Inspector General’s office, where they formally
presented their complaints.
The procession moved through parts of the Central Business
District, drawing public attention along the route.
The delegation included Gachagua, People’s Liberation Party
(PLP) leader Martha Karua, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, Deputy Party leader
Cleophas Malala, Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, Senator Dan Maanzo, and
other opposition figures.
The leaders asked that the police investigate and take
appropriate measures against individuals involved in disrupting political
events.
They emphasised that ensuring the security of political
gatherings is essential for maintaining a fair and democratic process.
Their submissions come amid rising reports of disruptions
and violent incidents at political events across the country.
The march came a week after an incident involving former
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at the ACK Church in Witima, Othaya, Nyeri
County, which heightened political tensions.
During the Sunday incident, police officers were accused of
acting alongside unidentified individuals as tear gas was deployed in and
around the church compound, triggering widespread public debate.
Church leaders and faith-based organisations later condemned
the events, describing them as a violation of the sanctity of places of worship
and calling for restraint and respect for religious spaces. They urged
political actors and security agencies to avoid actions that could undermine
religious freedom or erode public confidence.
Gachagua and his supporters blamed the police for the
chaos, alleging that insufficient action was taken to prevent the situation
from escalating, forcing worshippers and clergy to flee to safety.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen subsequently
directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to launch investigations
into the incident at Witima Church and ensure that those responsible for the
violence are held accountable.
Murkomen also condemned the events that occurred inside and
outside the church, where the use of tear gas caused panic among worshippers,
warning that such incidents are unacceptable in places of worship.