A tense situation unfolded at the Linda Mwananchi rally at Amalemba Grounds in Kakamega County.
The incident began when an unidentified man reportedly threw a tear gas canister towards the stage, disrupting Edwin Sifuna’s speech.
Angered supporters quickly descended on the man, beating him until he was rescued by Sifuna and Babu Owino. Some attendees alleged that the man works with the Kakamega County Government.
“Huyo mwenye alirusha teargas anakuwanga kwa county,” supporters claimed, meaning the tear gas thrower is employed by the county.
The chaos escalated when a middle-aged man, suspected to be a former police officer, was discovered hiding in a local house with handcuffs and a pistol.
Residents, determined to protect the rally participants, forced the house owner to release the man, resulting in property damage.
“He was hiding in one of the houses here; we found him with handcuffs and a pistol, so we don’t know his motive,” a resident said.
The dramatic events reflect rising tensions around political mobilization in Western Kenya, with local residents warning that they would protect the Linda Mwananchi group and cautioning police not to interfere.
Authorities, led by Western Region Police Commander Issa Mahmud, stated that they were not informed of the rally in advance but confirmed they were prepared to provide security if proper notification was given.
The incidents have raised concerns over security, public order, and the risks faced during high-profile political events.
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Politics