Tensions in Nakuru as police disrupt pro-Gachagua rally

The dramatic scenes played out at Kwa Kahiga in Subukia, where officers clashed with members of the Democratic Change Party (DCP), who were on a political tour of the region.

The convoy of leaders had earlier attended a church service at AIC Subukia before proceeding with a series of scheduled stopovers, including Kabazi, Maili Sita, and Heshima in Nakuru North constituency.

However, police mounted heavy security along the route, deploying officers and setting up roadblocks to prevent the gatherings from taking place.

At one of the barricades in Kwa Kahiga, a tense standoff ensued as leaders engaged police officers in a heated exchange. After negotiations failed, the convoy forced its way past the blockade, and the political rally proceeded as planned.

Speaking at various stops, the leaders condemned the government for what they termed as political persecution and suppression of dissent.

“There are people misleading the President that Nakuru is firmly behind him just because he hails from the Rift Valley,” said Nyandarua Senator John Methu. “Let him come and see for himself. Does he really have votes here?”

Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara took a direct swipe at the government, accusing it of weaponizing the police to intimidate opposition voices. “You want to jail me for telling the truth? When men commit crimes you can’t arrest them, but you want to arrest me?” she posed to a cheering crowd.

Deputy DCP Party Leader Cleophas Malala rallied supporters across regions to unite against the current administration. “From Western, to Rift Valley, to Central – we are saying, it’s time for him to go home!” he declared.

The leaders used the rally to launch a voter registration drive, urging their supporters to register in large numbers ahead of the 2027 General Election in a bid to oust President William Ruto.

“This young man doesn’t have the numbers,” said Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu. “Let’s register, get our votes in line, and send him packing.”

Earlier at the AIC Subukia church service, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua said the government appeared rattled by growing public dissatisfaction. “They’ve started panicking because they know the votes won’t be enough. Now they’re already talking about rigging. It’s clear—they’re in a state of anxiety,” he said.

The events in Nakuru highlight escalating tensions within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, with the Gachagua-aligned faction of the DCP signaling a more confrontational political strategy in the run-up to 2027.