Kirinyaga DCP demands probe into alleged state-backed disruption of Opposition rallies
Leaders drawn from the Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP) in Kirinyaga County have demanded urgent investigations into what they describe as a disturbing wave of state-backed disruptions targeting opposition events across the country.
Addressing the press in Gichugu today, Kirinyaga DCP Chairman Justus Munene accused senior security officials of allegedly orchestrating chaos and violence at opposition gatherings, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Kenya’s democratic space.
“It cannot be business as usual when innocent wananchi are teargassed in churches and peaceful political meetings are violently disrupted,” Munene said, calling for independent investigative agencies to swiftly establish those responsible. “If rogue state agents are involved, they must be held accountable.”
Munene singled out the recent teargassing of congregants at Witima Church in Othaya as “shocking and unacceptable.”
He also cited alleged attacks on opposition leaders in Nairobi and the disruption of a rally led by Edwin Sifuna in Kitengela as evidence of what he termed a coordinated attempt to silence dissent.
“The pattern is too clear to ignore. Women, children and worshippers were caught in the crossfire inside a church. That is not just political intolerance; it is a direct attack on our moral fabric as a nation,” he said.
Kirinyaga DCP Coordinator Kahiga Kiguru echoed the concerns, stressing that the Constitution guarantees freedom of assembly and political expression to all Kenyans regardless of political affiliation.
“Freedom of assembly is not a favour granted by the state; it is a constitutional right,” Kiguru said, questioning the use of force against worshippers and terming the alleged teargassing of church congregants deeply disrespectful.
The leaders urged President William Ruto to rein in security agencies and ensure they operate within the law, warning that continued intolerance could erode public trust in institutions and plunge the country into unnecessary tension.
