Gunshots were heard during protests in Kitale, Trans-Nzoia County, after a group of youths demonstrated over alleged non-payment for attending an event hosted by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Tuesday, March 24.
Videos circulating on social media on Wednesday show the youths blocking a police vehicle as they demanded mobilisation fees for participating in the event.
The situation escalated as tensions rose, with the group confronting police officers at the scene.
Gunshots Reported in Kitale as Youths Protest Unpaid Attendance at DP Kindiki Event. Photo: Courtesy.
In response, gunshots were reportedly fired, believed to be an attempt by police to disperse the crowd and restore order after the road was blocked.
It remains unclear whether anyone was injured during the Kitale protests, as authorities have yet to issue an official report on the incident.
Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi condemned the police response, accusing Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and local United Democratic Alliance (UDA) officials of using force against youths instead of addressing their payment concerns.
He argued that the youths had attended the event after being mobilised and deserved compensation.
Kindiki had visited Kitale on Tuesday as part of a development tour, where he inspected and commissioned government projects before addressing residents on ongoing and upcoming initiatives in the Maili Saba area.
The incident has also reignited claims that some political events involve paid mobilisation of attendees, an issue that continues to spark public debate.
