Tension gripped Keroka in Kisii County on Monday, February 23, after a vehicle was torched during confrontations linked to a political rally attended by supporters of Jubilee candidate Fred Matiang’i.
The unrest reportedly began when a Toyota Probox, said to be carrying individuals described by locals as goons, was blocked by a crowd. Supporters barricaded the road, forcing the vehicle to stop.
Witnesses said several occupants managed to flee the scene. However, two individuals were cornered by members of the crowd and assaulted before the vehicle was set on fire. Reports indicate that crude weapons were later found inside the Probox. The injured men were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Speaking after the chaos, Matiang’i condemned the violence and accused individuals allegedly linked to the state of attempting to disrupt his rally. He claimed that leaders allied to President William Ruto had sent people to cause disruption, adding that political competition should not involve intimidation or violence.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua offered a contrasting reaction, commending residents for what he described as swift action against suspected troublemakers. His remarks further heightened the political tension surrounding the incident.
As the convoy proceeded through the region, additional confrontations were reported in Kisii Town, where two rival groups allegedly clashed. One faction was said to be armed with machetes, leaving motorists and residents caught in the unrest before calm was gradually restored.
Earlier in the day, Matiang’i had received endorsement from regional elders as the official spokesperson of the Gusii community, amid growing political activity as leaders position themselves ahead of future elections.
The events in Keroka have once again underscored rising political temperatures in the region, with renewed calls for restraint and peaceful engagement among rival camps.
