Salasya acknowledges public support following Nyayo Stadium attack
Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya has once again emphasized the strong support he enjoys from Kenyans following an attack at Nyayo Stadium during the Harambee Stars’ World Cup qualifier match against Gabon on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
The MP, who has previously spoken on the incident, reiterated his belief that the overwhelming response from the public is proof of his widespread support.
In a statement shared on his Instagram page on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, Salasya expressed surprise at the level of solidarity he received. He noted that the attack, rather than diminishing his influence, had only served to highlight his strong following.
According to him, even those who orchestrated the assault did not gain as much attention, reinforcing his belief that no one holds a monopoly over acts of aggression.
“I never knew Kenyans loved me until I was beaten at Nyayo Stadium. Thanks so much; at least they now know I also have followers and supporters and my tribesmen at least heshima itadumu from now henceforth… hata wenye walinipiga hawajaungwa hivi,” Salasya stated.
Influence
Salasya, who has continued to address the incident, thanked Kenyans for their unwavering support. He revealed that his social media post detailing the attack had garnered over 1.5 million views in a short period, further solidifying his claim that he has a strong base of followers.
In a statement on his Instagram on Monday, March 24, 2025, he pointed out that he had been trending across multiple social media platforms, including Instagram, X, and TikTok, following the altercation.
Recounting the ordeal, the MP maintained that the attack was premeditated, explaining that he had been monitored from the moment he arrived at the stadium. He described how a group of about ten individuals persistently followed him, throwing insults before eventually launching the attack. Despite the aggression, Salasya stated that he had attended the match without a security detail, accompanied only by a friend, believing that the event was meant to bring people together as a nation.
The situation escalated when his attackers took advantage of his vulnerability, striking him with a trash bin. Meanwhile, sections of the crowd chanted ‘Heshimu rais’ (respect the president), demanding that he show respect to President William Ruto. The commotion quickly intensified, prompting security personnel to step in and escort him out of the stadium. Video footage shared widely online showed the MP, clad in an AFC Leopards jersey, being rushed to safety by his bodyguards.
“They took advantage of that; they knew I would be there. Football brings people together as a country, so I did not bring bodyguards, just a friend to enjoy the game and support. The moment I entered, there was the person who warned me at the gate; there was someone who was following me, and even when I went to the VIP, he was still following me.
The other guys, they were like ten guys; they were just somewhere following me, throwing insults as they approached,” Salasya shared.
Forgiveness
Addressing the matter again on March 26, Salasya reiterated his decision not to take legal action against those who assaulted him. He suggested that past incidents had shown that those who have harmed him have not fared well, referencing previous altercations in Kakamega where his alleged attackers later faced unfortunate outcomes. Despite this, he maintained that he was a forgiving and sympathetic person.
