Tension erupted in Kitengela on Sunday, February 15, as police fired teargas to disperse an ODM political gathering led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
The rally had drawn a large crowd of supporters before chaos suddenly broke out. The disturbance occurred while Sifuna was introducing leaders accompanying him to the event, abruptly halting proceedings.
Videos shared online show thick clouds of teargas spreading across the venue, forcing residents and supporters to scramble for safety.
Teargas in Kitengela as Police Disperse ODM Rally with Sifuna & Owino. Photo: Courtesy.
Amid the commotion, Sifuna urged calm, asking supporters not to panic or retaliate as tensions escalated.
In a social media update, Sifuna condemned the government for harassment and intimidation during the Kitengela rally but vowed that the ODM faction would not back down.
He described how state agents disrupted the event by destroying the dais and sound equipment and later dispersing the crowd with teargas, bringing the gathering to an abrupt end.
Weeks earlier, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua raised alarms over a security incident at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, claiming his life was under threat.
On Sunday, January 25, Gachagua alleged that he and other worshippers were attacked during a church service, with security operatives reportedly using tear gas and live ammunition, creating a tense and dangerous situation for congregants.
He appealed to Kenyans for prayers, seeking protection for himself and other attendees amid the incident, which he described as a targeted attack on worshippers.
Following the incident, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable and insisting it will not be tolerated.
He expressed deep concern over the attack inside a place of worship, stressing that such behavior has no place in society.
Murkomen added that he has engaged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who assured him that swift investigations are underway to hold those responsible accountable.
Murkomen instructed law enforcement to act without bias, emphasizing that no one should receive protection due to their social status or political connections.
