Chaos erupted on Tuesday afternoon during the United Opposition's political gathering in Gilgil, Nakuru County, after suspected hired goons attempted to disrupt a rally.
The rally led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was in the company of other opposition leaders, including Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, had drawn hundreds of residents to a roadside public rally.
It all ensued when DAP-Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa took over to address the residents in an attempt to rally them to support the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Hardly had he begun speaking when a group of youth charged towards the crowd and began attacking those who had gathered along the road to listen to the politicians.
The rally was momentarily stopped after residents began scampering for safety as the suspected goons pelted objects at the opposition leaders.
Footage of the incident showed Gachagua and other opposition leaders standing on top of their vehicles in dismay as the residents rushed to gain cover at nearby buildings.
Following the incident, the opposition leaders accused the area leaders allied to President William Ruto's administration of allegedly orchestrating the attacks.
In particular, Wamalwa criticised Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika of reportedly hiring goons to attack the opposition, describing her as a one-term leader.
It is not the first time that the opposition leaders have been attacked in Gilgil. In August this year, a meeting attended by Gachagua's allies was disrupted after a contingent of police officers dispersed residents who had gathered to listen to the opposition team.
The meeting organised by Gachagua's close allies, led by Nyandarua Senator John Methu, ended abruptly after police officers began pelting tear gas canisters.
During the fracas, one person, a boda boda rider, was allegedly shot on the leg by people believed to be police officers. He was immediately rushed to the hospital.
The incident left scores of injuries, with the occurrence taking place in the absence of the former DP, who had travelled to the United States for a two-month fundraising tour.
