Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen speaking in Isiolo on May 15, 2025/MINA.
Authorities have launched investigations into the violence that marred the launch of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s new political outfit, the Democracy for Citizens Party, in Nairobi.
The chaotic scenes unfolded along Musa Gitau Road in Lavington, where the event was being held.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, speaking during a security meeting in Isiolo, confirmed that the government is probing the incident, particularly the actions of unidentified individuals who were seen firing gunshots during the melee.
“Some people in civilian clothes drew their guns and fired in the air. We will investigate to find out who these people were and why they did what they did,” said Murkomen.
He further revealed that police had not been formally notified of the event, which he said complicated efforts to provide adequate security.
“We would like all leaders to seek the services of police when they are having events,” the CS advised, urging for better coordination with security agencies in the future.
According to preliminary investigations, the chaos erupted during the disbursement of allowances to supporters, a move that may have triggered the stampede and panic.
“There is nothing wrong with paying supporters, but it should be done in a manner that is organised so as not to cause stampedes,” Murkomen added.
Eyewitnesses reported that the event had been progressing peacefully, with Gachagua having already addressed the crowd and unveiled party officials.
The situation quickly turned volatile when a group of unruly individuals stormed the venue in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the proceedings.
Police officers, reportedly on high alert, responded swiftly by firing warning shots into the air in an effort to disperse the crowd. In the confusion, several people were cornered and assaulted, while party officials were hurriedly evacuated for their safety.
The incident has sparked concern about growing political tensions , with calls mounting for calm and a return to civility in political engagements.
Neither Gachagua nor
officials from the newly formed Democracy for Citizens Party have
issued an official statement following the incident. Investigations
remain ongoing.
