A political mobilisation in Kisii County turned chaotic after a convoy carrying senior opposition figures was violently attacked in Keumbu, leaving several people injured and raising fresh concerns over political intolerance ahead of the 2027 elections.
The incident occurred during the Linda Mwananchi rally, which had drawn large crowds across Mosocho, Kisii Town, Keumbu, and Suneka.
The events had initially proceeded peacefully, with leaders engaging residents on governance and economic concerns, before the situation escalated.
According to United Green Movement (UGM) co-party leader Agostinho Neto, vehicles carrying prominent leaders, including former Chief Justice David Maraga and Siaya Governor James Orengo, were pelted with stones by a group of youths, resulting in shattered windscreens and damaged cars.
“We got attacked at Keumbu… Cars carrying leaders were pelted with stones, windows and windscreens shattered. Several people were injured,” Neto said.
Videos seen online captured moments of panic as supporters scrambled for safety while the convoy attempted to push through the area. Witnesses reported confusion and fear as the confrontation unfolded.
Neto confirmed that those affected had recorded statements at Keumbu Police Station, formally documenting the incident for investigation.
However, the UGM leader went further, making serious allegations against police officers who were present at the scene. He claimed that security personnel failed to intervene and instead appeared to facilitate the attackers, an assertion that has not been independently verified.
“You can see from the videos, police… supervising the goons, aiding and abetting them,” he alleged.
The claims have intensified scrutiny on the conduct of security agencies during political events, particularly amid rising reports of disruptions linked to rival political factions.
Neto also called on constitutional oversight bodies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), to investigate the incident and ensure accountability.