Kalonzo, Gachagua Lead Opposition Protest Over Violence Against Leaders

United Opposition leaders have condemned a wave of violent attacks targeting opposition politicians and their supporters, calling on the police to act immediately.

Since November 2024, more than 23 incidents have disrupted political events, funerals, prayer gatherings, church services, and by-elections.

Witnesses say that in many cases, armed groups, sometimes accompanied by police, used teargas, live ammunition, set vehicles on fire, ambushed motorcades, and attacked sacred spaces. Despite repeated complaints, no arrests or meaningful investigations have been carried out.

The most serious attack occurred on January 26, 2026, at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County.

Police officers and hired thugs reportedly teargassed the church, set vehicles ablaze, and injured worshippers—including children, women, and clergy—while targeting the Second Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua.

“This was not law enforcement. It was state-sanctioned criminality and a blatant violation of every Kenyan’s constitutional rights to safety, assembly, and worship,” said Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

Speaking alongside Kalonzo, Gachagua said, “We cannot live in a nation of impunity in a country our forefathers founded. The culture of goonism has no place in a civilized society. Injustice to any Kenyan, irrespective of their creed, belief, tribe, or color, is a threat to our Constitution of 2010. Several Kenyans have lost their lives to goons and police, yet no action has been taken despite the perpetrators being known.”

The leaders have given the Inspector General of Police until February 16, 2026, to ensure those responsible are arrested and held accountable.

Gachagua added, “We shall not relent. Kenya is bigger than any one of us, whether in authority or otherwise. We shall be back in Othaya Town this weekend, and we will not bow to anyone as a people united to defend our nation.”

Earlier on Thursday, Kalonzo, Gachagua, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Cleophas Malala, Gloria Orwoba, Dan Maanzo, Seki Lenku, Gakuya Mwangi, Ndegwa Njiru, and other opposition leaders marched to Jogoo House to formally present complaints to the Inspector General of Police, demanding immediate action.

“We cannot accept a police service weaponized to intimidate, attack, or attempt to harm elected leaders. Kenyans must not live in fear of the very officers sworn to protect them,” Kalonzo said.