Wamuzi News Ke
A harrowing scene unfolded this afternoon as the convoy of top opposition figures—including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya—was violently attacked in Chwele, Bungoma County. What began as a routine stop following a campaign rally quickly escalated into chaos.
Brutal Assault Along Bungoma’s Roads
Eyewitnesses report that, shortly after departing the rally site en route to Kitale, the convoy was ambushed by a mob described as “government-sponsored goons.” Security cameras and social media footage show vehicles pelted with stones, clubs brandished by attackers, and at least one individual reportedly armed with a knife. The attackers even opened fire, leaving passengers scrambling for cover.
Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, part of the convoy, told reporters, “We are under heavy attack… goons are firing gunshots, aiming at our convoy,” before the group drove off under duress.
Disturbing Allegations: Police in Collusion?
Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba, present at the scene, accused riot police of standing by as the violence unfolded. “The police are working with the goons… they are not even stopping them,” she asserted, crying alarm over collusion between law enforcement and armed assailants.
Orwoba revealed that one associate suffered a serious head injury, bleeding profusely from a deep cut. Injured and unable to continue, he was evacuated to a hospital for urgent treatment.
Tour Continues Amid Tense Atmosphere
Despite the violence, opposition leaders pressed on with their multi-county tour across Western Kenya—a campaign apparently aimed at countering rising state powers and reaffirming democratic solidarity in the face of alleged intimidation.
Arriving in Kitale, Gachagua delivered a defiant speech in Bungoma earlier today, stating that “power truly belongs to the people” and vowing to “rewrite the wrongs of the past” during his speech—even as his convoy reeled from the attack.
Brewing Political Storm
This brazen assault marks a dangerous escalation. Opposition leaders argue that the militia-style tactics are being employed to disrupt peaceful political campaigning. Claims that state institutions are facilitating the violence have intensified fears ahead of the summer’s Saba Saba demonstrations.
Unanswered Questions
- Were these attacks directed or tolerated by state security agencies?
- How will national authorities respond to allegations of police complicity?
- Will this incident chill political participation—or become a rallying cry for democratic forces?
Today’s violence in Bungoma casts a grim shadow over Kenya’s political landscape. As the opposition presses deeper into Western counties, one question looms large: Can political expression survive amid claims of organized intimidation?
