Nakuru – A planned rally by allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua erupted into confrontation on Sunday after police officers used tear gas and erected roadblocks to stop the convoy from entering Nakuru town.
The standoff began in Kwa Kahiga, Subukia, where members of the Democratic Change Party (DCP) had assembled after attending a service at AIC Subukia. The group, which included elected leaders, planned multiple political stopovers in Kabazi, Maili Sita, and Heshima within Nakuru North constituency.
However, police mounted heavy security presence along the route and blocked the convoy. At Kwa Kahiga, tensions flared as party leaders engaged officers in a verbal exchange. When the talks failed, the leaders forced their way past the barrier and resumed the rally.
Speaking to supporters, Nyandarua Senator John Methu challenged President William Ruto’s perceived popularity in the Rift Valley. “There are people lying to the President that Nakuru supports him just because he comes from this region. Let him come see the truth himself. Does he have the numbers here?” Senator Methu asked.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara accused authorities of targeting dissent. “When men commit crimes, they walk free. But you want to arrest me for speaking out?” she said, prompting cheers from the crowd.
Deputy DCP Party Leader Cleophas Malala called for unity against the Ruto-led administration. “From Western to Central and Rift Valley this country is ready for change. He must go home,” Malala told supporters.
Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu rallied voters to register ahead of 2027. “He doesn’t have the numbers. Let’s organize, vote, and remove him through the ballot,” he said.
The rally also doubled as a voter registration campaign, with speakers urging supporters to prepare for what they called a decisive contest in the next general election.
Earlier at the church service, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua warned that government anxiety over dwindling public support was evident. “They’ve already started talking about rigging. That tells you all you need to know they are panicking,” he said.
The disruptions in Nakuru come amid growing internal friction within the Kenya Kwanza alliance. Gachagua’s wing of the DCP has increasingly taken a confrontational stance, signaling deeper divisions as the 2027 campaign season begins to take shape.
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