Opposition figures have expressed alarm over disruptions and violent episodes at their political events, calling on authorities to address the situation.
The group stated they were lodging formal complaints to guarantee the safety of future political activities.
Addressing media in Nairobi’s CBD on Friday after submitting complaints to Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja, ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua revealed that the opposition had documented recent incidents, threatening mass mobilization if no security measures were implemented.
“We have presented the information to the Inspector General for action against those responsible for the Othaya incident. If no action is taken, we will call upon Kenyans to demonstrate,” he stated.
Gachagua further announced that opposition leaders intend to visit Othaya again this Sunday, sharing details about their meeting locations, while stressing the importance of security protocols at political gatherings.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also voiced worries about increasing disruptions at political rallies, emphasizing the necessity of accountability and secure political participation.
“If any national leader is harmed, we will contemplate mass mobilization involving the church, Kenyans, and all sectors. It is crucial that such matters are handled swiftly,” Musyoka remarked.
On Friday, the leaders convened at Nairobi’s Stanley Hotel prior to proceeding to the Inspector General’s office, where they officially submitted their grievances.
The procession traversed sections of the Central Business District, attracting public interest throughout the route.
The delegation comprised Gachagua, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) chair Martha Karua, DAP-K chief Eugene Wamalwa, Deputy Party head Cleophas Malala, Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, Senator Dan Maanzo, and various other opposition representatives.
The leaders requested that police investigate and implement appropriate measures against those involved in interfering with political gatherings.
They stressed that maintaining security at political gatherings is vital for upholding a just and democratic process.
Their complaints arrive as reports of disruptions and violent incidents at political events continue to increase nationwide.
The march occurred one week after an incident involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at the ACK Church in Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, which intensified political tensions.
During the Sunday occurrence, police officers were alleged to have collaborated with unidentified persons as tear gas was used inside and outside the church premises, sparking extensive public discussion.
Church leaders and religious organizations subsequently condemned the incidents, characterizing them as violations of worship site sanctity and calling for restraint and respect for religious venues. They appealed to political figures and security forces to refrain from actions that could compromise religious freedom or diminish public trust.
Gachagua and his supporters attributed the turmoil to police, claiming inadequate measures were implemented to prevent the escalation, compelling worshippers and clergy to seek refuge.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen subsequently directed Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja to initiate investigations into the Witima Church incident and guarantee that those responsible for the violence are held accountable.
Murkomen also denounced the incidents that took place within and around the church, where tear gas deployment created panic among congregants, stating that such occurrences are intolerable in sacred spaces.