Opposition leaders threaten protests over attacks at rallies

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.