Opposition leaders to meet IG over security concerns

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader Cleophas Malala has written to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to notify him of an intended visit by leaders of the United Opposition.

The letter raises concerns over what the opposition describes as sustained attacks against opposition figures and their supporters.

Malala said the opposition leadership will visit the Inspector General’s office on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. to submit formal complaints and seek engagement on the safety and security of opposition leaders.

“I write to formally notify you that the leadership of the United Opposition will visit your office to officially raise serious complaints and engage in discussions on the way forward regarding the safety and security of opposition leaders and their supporters,” he stated.

In the letter, Malala claims that opposition leaders and supporters have faced harassment, intimidation, and violations of rights across the country, and noted that while some incidents were reported to police stations and commands, no updates or corrective actions have been communicated.

He further indicated that more than 20 incidents involving opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the DCP party leader, as well as other opposition activities, were documented in the letter.

The correspondence alleges that some incidents involved criminal gangs, while others are said to have been organised by political figures.

Among the events highlighted is an attack on November 28, 2024, during a funeral service in Limuru, Kiambu County, where Gachagua was reportedly targeted.

Malala also claims that on December 28, 2024, in Shamata, Nyandarua County, a teargas canister was thrown at opposition vehicles and supporters.

The letter further mentions that on January 18, 2025, the spouse of the party leader was reportedly ambushed during a prayer rally at Kamukunji Grounds in Nyeri Town.

In February 2025, an incident occurred at St Joseph AIPCA Church in Antubetwe Kiongo, Laare, in Igembe North, and in March, worshippers at ACK St Peter’s Cathedral in Nyeri were reportedly injured during a break-in.

Opposition leaders were also said to have faced attacks in Naivasha later that month.

Malala noted that the DCP party launch in Lavington in May 2025 was disrupted, as was his homecoming in Kakamega.

He also mentioned multiple alleged attacks in Meru County in June 2025, covering areas including Nkubu, Mikinduri, Maua, Kiengu Market, and Timau.

On July 4, 2025, armed groups reportedly attacked the United Opposition Leadership convoy and its supporters in Chwele, Bungoma County.

Malala emphasised the constitutional mandate of the National Police Service to provide security impartially and protect all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

He said the opposition leadership considers it necessary to seek direct engagement with the Inspector General’s office to address their concerns.

The planned delegation will include DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former CS Fred Matiang’i, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, former CS Justin Muturi, and leader Omingo Magara.

Malala expressed hope that the police leadership will receive the delegation and treat the matter seriously, in the interest of national stability, the rule of law, and democratic governance.