Opposition leaders on Friday staged a march to the Office of the Inspector General of Police to protest what they described as escalating incidents of violence, intimidation, and disruption of opposition political activities.
The leaders first convened in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) before proceeding on foot through parts of the city centre, drawing public attention as the procession made its way to the police headquarters.
Top Opposition Figures Lead CBD March
Among those who participated in the march were former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, DCP deputy party leader Cleophas Malala, Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, and Senator Dan Maanzo, alongside several other opposition figures.
According to the leaders, the march was aimed at seeking an audience with the Inspector General of Police to formally present concerns over the disruption of opposition meetings by groups they described as goons, allegedly operating with impunity.
Nyeri Church Incident Heightens Political Tensions
The protest comes barely a week after a controversial incident involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at the ACK Church in Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, which significantly heightened political tensions.
During the Sunday incident, police officers were accused of acting in concert with unidentified individuals as tear gas was deployed in and around the church compound, sparking widespread public debate and condemnation.
Gachagua and his supporters blamed the police for the chaos, accusing officers of failing to take adequate measures to prevent the situation from escalating, forcing worshippers and clergy to flee for safety.
Interior CS Orders Probe
In response to the incident, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to launch investigations into the events at the church and ensure that all those responsible for the violence are held accountable.
The opposition leaders maintain that their concerns reflect a broader pattern of intimidation that threatens democratic space and have called for urgent action to guarantee the safety of political activities across the country.
About the Author
