Kindiki reacts after violent mob invasion disrupts Gachagua’s party launch
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has lashed out at what he described as unacceptable political intolerance after a violent mob stormed and disrupted the official launch of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s new political outfit, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
The chaotic scenes unfolded on Thursday, May 15, 2025, just moments after Gachagua unveiled his long-anticipated party in a colourful ceremony held at the new DCP headquarters on Musa Gitau Road in Nairobi’s upmarket Lavington suburb.
What began as a jubilant show of political resurrection for Gachagua quickly descended into pandemonium as a group of unidentified goons charged into the venue, sparking fear and confusion among party supporters, leaders and invited guests.
In a swift response posted on X, Kindiki condemned the violence, urging Kenyan political players to embrace democracy and tolerance.
“Our country must exercise democratic tolerance and embrace issue-based politics. Insults, violence and divisive rhetoric as a means of processing political differences of opinion have no place in our society. We owe to the current and future generations a nation built on peace, peaceful coexistence and respect for one another even if when we disagree on issues of policy,” Kindiki wrote.
Gunshots and chaos
Footage from the scene showed a man believed to be a police officer firing gunshots into the air as rowdy youths attempted to push through the gates.
Armed police on high alert moved in quickly, dispersing the mob and restoring order within minutes.
Sources at the venue say the attackers appeared to be on a mission to disrupt the event.
Eyewitnesses reported scuffles, screaming and a rush for safety as some guests were bundled into waiting vehicles by security personnel.
A number of individuals, believed to be part of the invading group, were cornered and roughed up by angry attendees before police officers intervened.
The former DP, who had just finished unveiling his party leadership – complete with neon green, brown, and white branding and the slogan ‘Skiza Wakenya’ (Listen to Kenyans) – was forced to delay his exit as officers secured the grounds.
While no fatalities were reported, the melee cast a shadow over what was supposed to be Gachagua’s moment of political rebirth.
So far, no arrests have been announced, though authorities indicated that security would be tightened around political functions in the coming weeks.
As the dust settles, political pundits say the incident may only serve to amplify Gachagua’s new political message.
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