What began as a peaceful political rally in the heart of Kakamega town exploded into chaos Saturday afternoon after police unleashed teargas to disperse crowds gathered for the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) event.
In a dramatic turn of events, top DCP figures—including newly appointed deputy party leader Cleophas Malala, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and Kiambu Senator Karung’o Thang’wa—were caught in the thick of the confrontation as officers moved in swiftly and without warning.
The rally, which had drawn hundreds of supporters decked in DCP colors, was intended to be a grand homecoming for Malala and a major moment in the party’s national popularization campaign following its recent launch on May 15.
Anticipation was high, especially with reports that party leader Rigathi Gachagua would make an appearance—though his whereabouts during the chaos remain unknown.Crowds had flooded the Central Business District under tight police surveillance, and for a brief moment, the atmosphere was hopeful.
But within minutes of Malala and Senator Methu climbing atop a vehicle to address supporters, the scene turned into pandemonium.Teargas canisters rained down as law enforcement broke up the gathering, sending party faithful fleeing under choking clouds of white smoke.
Chants against the government were drowned out by screams and the hissing of gas. Children, elderly citizens, and even local traders were caught in the turmoil.The unrest came hot on the heels of a fiery warning issued by Malala just a day earlier in Embu’s Manyatta Constituency.
Speaking in defiance, Malala accused President William Ruto of plotting the arrest of former Deputy President Gachagua—a move he warned could ignite public outrage.
“If you dare arrest Rigathi Gachagua, then you’ll understand the true heartbeat of this nation,” Malala had declared boldly. “Try it, and see how Kenyans react. We’re putting you to the test.”Sources close to DCP now claim that the state is growing increasingly uneasy with the party’s rapid mobilization and growing public support.
Several political heavyweights, once allies of Ruto, are reportedly backing away and echoing concerns over what they call his “leadership by intimidation.”
As the dust settles in Kakamega, many are left questioning: Was this an isolated crackdown—or the beginning of a full-blown political showdown in Kenya?
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