Gachagua’s Opposition Rally Turns Ugly After Goons Chase Away DCP Leaders

Gachagua’s Opposition Rally Turns Ugly After Goons Chase Away DCP Leaders

Violence erupted in Runyenjes, Embu County on Saturday October 11 after suspected goons disrupted a major opposition rally led by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The event was the official launch of the united opposition campaign after individual parties held their National Delegates Conferences where they endorsed their respective presidential candidates for the 2027 general election. The coalition is seeking to challenge President William Ruto’s government by consolidating support across key regions.

Gachagua addressed a large crowd and reaffirmed his ambition to reclaim Mt. Kenya and position himself as a key contender for the coalition’s presidential ticket. He promised to unite the region and restore its political influence and independence.

But moments after he finished delivering fiery speeches calling for a leadership change in 2027, chaos broke out. Witnesses said unknown individuals believed to be hired goons invaded the venue and started throwing stones and forcing DCP officials to scatter for safety. The situation worsened when the attackers armed with batons chased the DCP campaign vehicle through the streets as locals watched in shock.

In a statement after the incident Gachagua praised the people of Runyenjes for standing firm and rejecting intimidation. He accused unnamed elected leaders of planning the attack to silence dissenting voices.

“Runyenjes you are great people! Today you have rejected planned violence by some elected leaders who have turned against your will. You have sent a strong message to those serving dictatorship. It’s only a matter of time! God bless Runyenjes and God bless Kenya,” Gachagua posted on social media.

He described the incident as a “turning point” and said Kenyans were ready to defend democratic freedoms against what he called “authoritarian governance”.

The disruption is the latest in a series of incidents targeting opposition rallies in recent months. Political analysts have warned that the growing intolerance will heighten tensions as the country heads to the 2027 polls.

No one has been arrested over the Runyenjes incident though calls for investigation into the security lapses are growing.

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Gachagua’s Opposition Rally Turns Ugly After Goons Chase Away DCP Leaders