Nairobi Senator and embattled Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Edwin Sifuna drew thousands of supporters to a highly anticipated Linda Mwananchi Tour rally in Kitengela today, but what began as a spirited political gathering descended into chaos as police fired tear gas and disrupted the meeting.
The rally, which had attracted a large turnout from across Kajiado County and neighbouring regions, was seen as a show of strength by Sifuna and his allies following the controversial decision by some segments of the ODM hierarchy to remove him as party secretary-general earlier this month.
Supporters thronged the streets of Kitengela, chanting slogans and waving banners, as Sifuna and other key figures allied to his faction, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and other lawmakers, took to the stage to address the passionate crowd.
But the celebrations were short-lived. Riot police moved in and lobbed tear gas canisters toward the assembled supporters, sending many scrambling for safety amid thick clouds of smoke.
Vehicles were forced to halt along the busy Nairobi–Namanga Road as panic spread and buses, boda boda operators and traders on nearby streets sought cover.
Witnesses told reporters that a section of the crowd remained defiant even as the police action intensified, with some youths engaging briefly with officers while others chanted anti-government slogans as they dispersed.
Sifuna condemned the crackdown in strong terms, blaming “state goons” and alleging pre-meditated attempts to sabotage the rally, starting with the destruction of equipment earlier in the day.
In a message shared on social media, the outspoken politician thanked Kitengela residents for turning up in large numbers before vowing to continue his political push.
“Thank You Kitengela. Inspite of all the harassment, intimidation and violence from this morning you showed up. They first destroyed our dais and sound equipment in the morning, the state goons have now teargassed a peaceful assembly and brought it to an abrupt end. We shall not relent”
Political analysts and opposition figures have raised concerns that the heavy-handed response by police threatens constitutional rights to assembly and free expression, especially as Kenya’s 2027 general election cycle intensifies.
Critics argue that similar disruptions at rallies undermine democratic engagement and reflect a broader pattern of political intolerance.
However, police have not publicly clarified what prompted the use of force at the rally, with no official statement on whether orders came from senior command or were in response to alleged public order threats.
For Sifuna, the events in Kitengela mark another dramatic chapter in his ongoing struggle within ODM amid deepening divisions over leadership, direction, and strategy for the next election.
Despite today’s disruption, his supporters have made clear they remain committed to his message and will continue to mobilise at the grassroots level.
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