What was expected to be a bold political comeback for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua turned into a scene of panic and disorder after unidentified individuals disrupted the launch of his new party, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), in Nairobi on Thursday, May 15.
The event, held at the party’s headquarters in Lavington, began with optimism. Gachagua and a number of his loyal allies had gathered to unveil the DCP, outlining its grassroots-focused agenda and leadership structure to an eager audience. Supporters filled the compound, hopeful for a new political path led by one of Kenya’s seasoned power players.
Moments after the speeches and introductions, a group of rowdy intruders stormed the compound. Shouting and pushing their way through the crowd, they brought the gathering to an abrupt halt. Panic gripped the attendees, some of whom were forced to flee for safety.
The situation escalated when an armed man, suspected to be an undercover officer, fired live rounds into the air. Attendees dropped to the ground or rushed to exit points as confusion erupted across the venue. Videos from the scene show scuffles breaking out as law enforcement tried to regain control.
The motives behind the disruption remain unclear. However, the timing and intensity of the attack have raised speculation about internal political friction and external sabotage.
Gachagua’s team had positioned the DCP launch as a turning point, especially after his recent fallout with the ruling party. Instead, the party’s debut has been overshadowed by images of chaos and security lapses.
By Kenyans