Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has strongly condemned the violent disruptions that marred the launch of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s new political party, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), on Thursday. The event, held along Musa Gitau Road in Lavington, was thrown into chaos after a group of rowdy goons stormed the venue, prompting a tense and dangerous confrontation.
Kindiki decried the use of violence and divisive rhetoric as tools to express political differences, emphasizing that such behavior has no place in Kenya’s political landscape. He urged all Kenyans to embrace tolerance and focus on issue-based politics, which he said is essential for the country’s democratic growth and stability.
“Insults, violence and divisive rhetoric as a means of processing political differences of opinion have no place in our society,” Kindiki stated. He further emphasized the responsibility of leaders to build a nation rooted in peace, coexistence, and respect values that are crucial for both current and future generations.
The disruption occurred shortly after Gachagua had concluded his speech and announced the party officials. According to witnesses, the group of goons appeared intent on sabotaging the event, forcing police officers on site to intervene swiftly. In an effort to disperse the crowd and restore order, police officers fired shots into the air.
Videos circulating from the scene captured moments of chaos, including a police officer holding a firearm and discharging warning shots as attendees rushed toward the venue’s exit gate. The scuffle resulted in some of the troublemakers being cornered and assaulted, while Gachagua’s team was quickly evacuated to safety.
During the unrest, Gachagua’s motorcade was temporarily halted as authorities intensified their efforts to control the situation. After approximately five minutes, calm was restored, allowing the former Deputy President to leave the venue.
Police have since launched an investigation into the incident to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the disruption. The event highlighted ongoing tensions in Kenya’s political environment but also underscored calls for peaceful and respectful political engagement moving forward.
