Gachagua Campaign Disrupted By Violence In Kirinyaga
Politics Updated: 09 January 2026 22:58 EAT
Former DP Rigathi Gachagua pulls masses in Kagio, Kirinyaga County
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s campaign activities in Kirinyaga County were disrupted on Friday after police dispersed his convoy using teargas along the Sagana–Kagio road.
The incident occurred as Gachagua and his allies were heading to Kagio town for a planned political engagement, drawing large crowds of supporters from surrounding areas.
Police mounted a roadblock near Sagana, where teargas was fired, briefly halting the convoy and causing panic among supporters and other road users.
Images and videos circulating online showed smoke billowing along the highway as vehicles attempted to maneuver away from the scene.
Despite the disruption, Gachagua’s convoy later proceeded and successfully reached Kagio, where he briefly addressed supporters.
Campaign officials claimed that some of their equipment was vandalised during the chaos and accused organised groups of attempting to disrupt the rally.
Allegations were also made that the disruption involved excessive force, though independent verification of the use of live ammunition was not available in mainstream reports.
No injuries were officially reported following the confrontation, according to media accounts covering the incident.
By the time of publication, the National Police Service had not issued a detailed public statement explaining the reasons for the teargas deployment.
The Kirinyaga incident adds to a growing list of confrontations between Gachagua’s political activities and security agencies in recent months.
Supporters who turned up in Kagio were praised by the campaign for defying the disruption and maintaining order.
Political analysts say the episode highlights rising tensions as political actors intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Civil society groups have previously warned against shrinking democratic space during political campaigns.
Kirinyaga County is considered a key political battleground in the Mount Kenya region, giving the incident added significance.
The events have renewed debate on the role of police in managing political gatherings while safeguarding constitutional freedoms.
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FELIX MAKONA
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