The National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed that one person was killed and several others injured following separate incidents of political violence in Kisumu City and Nyahururu Town on Sunday.
In a statement, NPS condemned the violence, saying it undermined public order, threatened national cohesion and violated citizens’ constitutional rights to peacefully assemble and participate in political activities.
“The Service strongly condemns these acts of political intolerance, violence and goonism. Such incidents undermine public order, threaten national cohesion and violate citizens’ constitutional rights to peacefully associate, assemble and participate in political activities,” NPS stated.
According to the service, a violent confrontation between two opposing groups in Kisumu City left one person dead and several others injured. The clashes also resulted in the torching of nine motorcycles and damage to a police vehicle.
The police intervened swiftly, leading to the arrest of eight suspects who are being held in custody pending arraignment in court.
“Following swift police intervention, eight suspects were arrested and placed in custody pending arraignment in court. Efforts to identify and apprehend other individuals involved are ongoing,” the NPS stated.
In Nyahururu Town, a separate group attempted to disrupt a political rally by pelting stones at attendees, causing minor injuries to several members of the public.
Among those injured was Murang’a Governor Irungu Kangata’s driver Joseph Gitau, who sustained a chest injury. NPS said he received treatment and was later discharged from hospital.
The National Police Service also dismissed reports alleging that a shooting occurred during the Nyahururu incident.
“In Nyahururu Town, a group of individuals attempted to disrupt a political rally by throwing stones, causing minor injuries to several members of the public, including one Joseph Gitau, who sustained a chest injury and was treated and discharged. Contrary to some allegations, there was no shooting incident,” the police said.
Six suspects were arrested in connection with the disruption and remain in police custody awaiting arraignment.
The police warned that individuals found engaging in violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters or disrupting lawful gatherings would face the full force of the law, regardless of their political affiliation or social status.
“The National Police Service remains committed to conducting a thorough, impartial and evidence-led investigation to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice,” NPS added.
