Rally in Nakuru Erupts as Police Break Up Meeting — Man Shot in Leg

A gathering of supporters of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Gilgil, Nakuru County, descended into chaos when police officers moved in to disperse the crowd. The rally, held by allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saw at least one attendee shot in the leg as explosives and teargas canisters were launched amid the fracas.
Supporters had assembled Saturday afternoon for what the party described as a routine engagement with residents across the Mt. Kenya region, led by senator John Methu and other local elected officials. But police officials intervened, blocking processional routes and reportedly deploying teargas; tensions escalated when the crowd resisted and the confrontation turned violent. A man wounded in the leg was seen on the ground as others fled.
The incident has sparked swift reactions. Party leaders accused the government of orchestrating the crackdown to stifle opposition activity, demanding investigations into police conduct and accountability for the injured man. Meanwhile, security agencies defended their actions as necessary to prevent disruption and maintain order. Residents of Gilgil have expressed concern over the heavy-handed approach, warning that the force used could inflame political tensions in the run-up to the 2027 general election.
Looking ahead, the episode raises serious questions about the balance between public order and political freedoms in Kenya. How the authorities respond to demands for transparency—and whether the injured rally-goer receives redress—may shape perceptions of the state’s tolerance for opposition mobilization. As political parties ramp up ahead of the election cycle, observers say scenes such as those in Gilgil will be closely watched for the precedent they set.