Chaos and violence marred the much-anticipated Linda Mwananchi rally in Kitengela on Sunday afternoon, forcing organizers to cut the event short. The rally, led by ODM leader Edwin Sifuna, had drawn a large crowd despite a tense atmosphere earlier in the day.
Reports indicate that the morning session was disrupted when unknown individuals destroyed the dais and sound equipment, raising concerns over safety and intimidation. Later in the day, law enforcement officers deployed teargas and fired warning shots into the air, dispersing the crowd and bringing the assembly to an abrupt end.
Addressing supporters after the disruption, Sifuna expressed gratitude for their resilience, saying, “Thank you, Kitengela. Despite all the harassment, intimidation, and violence this morning, you showed up. We shall not relent.”
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as attendees scrambled to safety, with security forces trying to regain control. The rally, which was intended to engage citizens on key political and civic issues, ended under tense circumstances, highlighting rising political friction in the area.
Party officials have vowed to continue mobilizing supporters and condemned the use of force against peaceful assemblies. The incident has sparked renewed debate over security protocols, the rights of citizens to assemble, and the conduct of political rallies in the region.
Authorities have not yet released a detailed statement regarding the deployment of teargas and the use of firearms at the rally.
Drama as Ruto Sends Police to Teargas Sifuna in Kitengela!! pic.twitter.com/zW8WwqJGHW
— Mutembei TV (@MutembeiTV) February 15, 2026