NYAHURURU, July 12 – A Linda Mwananchi political rally in Nyahururu was cut short on Sunday after violence broke out, leaving Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata’s driver with a gunshot injury.
Governor Kang’ata said his driver, Gitari, was shot in the chest after a group of suspected attackers disrupted the opposition gathering, forcing leaders and supporters to flee the venue.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, the governor confirmed the incident, saying his driver was rushed for medical attention after sustaining the injury during the chaos.
Kang’ata alleged that the attack was part of a series of disruptions targeting the Linda Mwananchi movement, claiming a similar incident occurred during the coalition’s rally in Keumbu, Kisii County, where participants were reportedly pelted with stones.
The rally ended abruptly as panic spread among attendees, with videos circulating online showing crowds running in different directions as the situation deteriorated.
By Sunday evening, police had not issued an official statement on the shooting or confirmed whether investigations had begun or any suspects had been arrested.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting and the identities of those responsible had also not been independently established.
The incident comes amid intensified political mobilisation across the country as the Linda Mwananchi movement continues holding rallies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Opposition leaders have repeatedly urged security agencies to ensure the safety of political gatherings, insisting that all parties should be allowed to conduct their activities without intimidation or violence.
The condition of Gitari was not immediately disclosed, although Governor Kang’ata said he had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and was receiving treatment